ASEAN stands committed to regional economic integration

By Iqbal Musyaffa and Rhany Chairunissa Rufinaldo

SINGAPORE

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries are committed to continue developing regional economic integration despite the rising anti-globalization sentiments and trade tension, Singapore’s trade and industry minister said on Monday.

Addressing the opening of ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) council meeting at the ASEAN Summit in Singapore, Chan Chun Sing said: “ASEAN remains committed to deepening regional economic integration through its AEC Blueprint 2025 vision."

He said the 2015 AEC agreement marked a milestone in the bloc’s regional integration journey.

"ASEAN agreed to embody overall economic potential through AEC," he asserted.

Chan also told the meeting that the bloc will need to continue to stay open and connected.

ASEAN also needs to improve collective strength to navigate the disruptive trends and anchor its relevance to the global economy, he added.

Chan said ASEAN has a huge economic potential with the growth of foreign direct investment as the young population reached 630 million and the middle class progressed.

"The region is ready to become the fourth largest economy in the world after the EU, the U.S., and China," he stated.

The minister also said that despite the uncertainty in current global economic growth and rising trade tension, ASEAN is still able to become a driving force in global economic growth.

ASEAN enjoyed an annual economic growth of an average of 5.1 percent since 2011, while the global economy only grew 3.9 percent on average, Chan stressed.

"This is because of the strong economic fundamentals and the unwavering commitment of ASEAN towards regional economic integration."