Jakarta (VNA) – Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), has commended Indonesia, Chair of the bloc in 2023, for raising priority economic deliverables (PEDs) that are forward-looking and expected to encourage stronger regional economic cooperation.

If the PEDs are fully implemented, they can significantly help bolster ASEAN economic integration and post-pandemic recovery in the region, Hourn told a press conference of the recent 29th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Retreat in Magelang, Central Java province.

The PEDs, agreed at the AEM Retreat, were categorised into three strategic thrusts, namely Recovery and Rebuilding: Rebuilding Regional Growth through Connected Markets and New Competitiveness; Digital Economy: Accelerating Inclusive Digital Economy Transformation and Participation; and Sustainability: Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth for a Resilient Future.

The meeting also discussed the strategic steps to develop intra-ASEAN trade and investment potential so that the region can have a more resilient economic growth.

Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn said ASEAN is pursuing the implementation of several key initiatives to improve its economic integration. Its member countries are also pursuing to carry out the ASEAN Industrial Project-based initiatives to build a resilient supply chain that optimises the potential of mineral resources and technology in the region.

The 29th AEM Retreat also discussed strategic steps to strengthen digitalisation and sustainability in the region as well as ASEAN’s pillars of economic integration.

Besides, the participating ministers agreed to implement a transformative regional development mindset that enables ASEAN to build a strong, resilient, and inclusive future, Kao added./.