
MANILA — Economic ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have endorsed the Philippines’ priority economic deliverables during the recent ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Retreat.
Ma. Cristina Roque, who currently chairs the AEM, said the meeting supported the country’s proposed initiatives aimed at strengthening the region’s investment climate and economic resilience.
According to Roque, the endorsed priorities focus on key sectors such as semiconductors, critical minerals, creative industries, and Artificial Intelligence, which are considered vital for advancing manufacturing and industrial development in the region.
The Philippines’ chairmanship provides the country an opportunity to set economic priorities and promote initiatives that align with national interests while strengthening cooperation with ASEAN member states and development partners.
The Philippine Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs) cover a wide range of areas, including energy, agriculture, strategic trade management, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises. These initiatives also support ASEAN’s broader push toward sustainability and green economic development.
Roque said the ministers also consulted with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, which carries the theme “Prosperity for All.” The council emphasized the need for closer collaboration between governments and the private sector to ensure ASEAN programs produce real benefits for businesses and communities.
In addition, economic ministers discussed how ASEAN member states can address the economic effects of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and explore ways to minimize potential disruptions to regional economies.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR