Addressing the second Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit, which opened in Thailand on October 10, the Vietnamese official suggested multi-dimension and multi-sector connections, especially in transportation, logistics, investment and trade, tourism and cultural exchanges.
He particularly stressed the significance of ACD cooperation, and efforts made by the host, Thailand, and other member nations in seeking measures to make intra-group cooperation more effective and practical.
Asia’s dynamic development has given momentum to the world’s economic growth, contributing to addressing global issues, he noted. In his opening speech, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha expressed his belief that the second ACD Summit will lay a foundation for sustainable development cooperation in Asia in the future.
Themed “One Asia, Diverse Strength,” the summit reflected the determination of the ACD’s member nations to promote development in Asia by enhancing friendship and creativity, united efforts and mutual trust, he said.
According to the Thai PM, Asia has maintained an average growth rate of 5% percent—the highest level in the world, presenting the region’s role as a main driving force for the global economy.
To realise the ACD’s vision for 2030, it was necessary to focus on key cooperation pillars in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he noted.
The ACD should serve as a bridge linking sub-regions in the region towards fully tapping resources and strengths, he stressed, adding that Thailand was willing to become a connector in the process.
At the summit, leaders from the ACD member countries clarified the content of six key pillars of cooperation, including connection, science, technology and renovation, education and human resources development, the relationship between food security, energy and water, culture and tourism and the promotion of approaches to sustainable and comprehensive growth.
They also participated in a dialogue with representatives from private economic sectors, heard a report presented by ACD General Secretary Bundit Limschoon, and approved the ACD’s vision for Asia Cooperation in 2030, the Bangkok Declaration and the ACD Statement on growth recovery through partnerships.
The Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) was inaugurated in June 2002 in Cha-Am, Thailand, where eighteen Asian Foreign Ministers met together for the first time. It is a continent-wide forum, aiming to consolidate Asian strengths to build an Asia of peace, development and prosperity.
