MALAYSIA has presented 18 Economic Priority Deliverables (EPDs) for its ASEAN chairmanship next year, focusing on a five-year strategic plan to transition into the 2025 era of regional integration.
Senior Economic Officials’ Meeting (SEOM) chair Mastura Ahmad Mustafa said the plan is aimed at supporting the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which seeks to create a dynamic and adaptable 20-year blueprint for economic cooperation.
“The 2026–2030 strategic plan aligns with ASEAN’s long-term goals while allowing flexibility to address rapid changes in the economy and technology,” she said when met at the ASEAN senior officials’ meeting dinner held in Kota Kinabalu last night.
The Economic Priority Deliverables (EPDs) are key initiatives proposed by ASEAN chair nations to drive regional economic integration, address emerging challenges, and support long-term goals like the ASEAN Community Vision.
Mastura noted that the retreat, attended by 57 delegates from nine ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste as an observer, also marked discussions on the conclusion of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025.
“The Philippines could not join us physically due to scheduling conflicts, but they participated virtually,” she added.
Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN chairmanship will kick off with three Senior Economic Officials’ Meetings (Siom) in Kuching (January), Penang (April), and Kuala Lumpur (July), followed by ministerial-level discussions in Desaru and the capital.
“These meetings will solidify Malaysia’s contributions to ASEAN’s economic agenda and enhance regional integration,” Mastura said.
The EPDs are expected to focus on trade facilitation, digital economy growth, sustainable development, and connectivity, supporting ASEAN’s goal of becoming a competitive and inclusive economic bloc.
The ASEAN Community Vision 2045, she said, represents a forward-looking strategy for the region, with the five-year plans ensuring the blueprint remains relevant in a rapidly evolving global landscape. – December 5, 2024
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