VietNamNet Bridge – Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung is leading a delegation to attend the ninth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 9) Summit, which opened in Vientiane, Laos on November 5.

Addressing the opening ceremony, which was attended by leaders of ASEM member nations and the European Commission, as well as the ASEAN Secretariat, Lao State President Choummaly Sayasone emphasised the significance of this year’s event for ASEM cooperation.

He also highlighted ASEM’s great contributions to strengthening ties between the two continents, especially in the context of complicated situations in Asia, Europe and around the world.

Speaking at a plenary session after the ceremony, PM Dung stressed the need to enhance ties and strengthen regional links to cope with emerging global challenges.

He proposed that ASEM boost economic cooperation through the forum by coordinating more closely regarding economic and financial policies.

He also suggested implementing the ASEM Trade Facilitation Action Plan (TFAP) and the Asia-Europe Investment Promotion Action Plan, in addition to reviving the ASEM Economic Ministers’ Meeting after a ten year hiatus.

PM Dung said ASEM should pay due attention to promoting development and regional and interregional connectivity, narrowing the development gap, and ensuring equal benefits for both developed and developing member nations.

ASEM member countries should encourage exchanging experiences and cooperating in shifting growth models and developing green economies, especially in the fields of agriculture and rural development, said Mr Dung.

The Vietnamese government leader also asked ASEM to contribute to renovating the International Monetary Fund and other international institutions to make them more equal, democratic, and efficient, and expand the role of newly-emerging economies and developing countries.

PM Dung also reaffirmed Vietnam’s determination to stabilize its macro economy and make it more transparent, curb inflation, improve the investment environment, and develop production, as well as renew its growth model, ensure social welfare and contribute more to development in the region and the world.

VietNamNet/VOV/VNA