Japan determines to back ASEAN

PHETCHABURI, 25 October 2009 (NNT) – Japan has stressed its support to the efforts of ASEAN in reducing the regional development gap, dealing with climate change and promoting mutual trusts between both sides during the 12th ASEAN-Japan Summit taking place on Saturday at the Dusit Thani Hotel.

Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama shared his vision for a long-term building of an East Asian Community and confirmed continued support for the establishment of the ASEAN Community. He also congratulated ASEAN for the inauguration of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR).

Both Japan and ASEAN leaders agreed to enhance closer collaboration to reduce the gap among ASEAN countries. Japan has so far contributed US$ 62 million to the ASEAN Secretariat for the support of vulnerable areas and economic crisis alleviation. Japan has also played a part in the Mekong regional development and the first Japan-Mekong Summit will be organized in Japan next month.

ASEAN leaders expressed appreciation to Japan for the use of Information Communication Technology for environmental management and disaster management. Other issues of discussion included connectivity, climate change, food and energy security, influenza A pandemic and exchanges of youth for stronger bonds between Japan and ASEAN.

Reference : http://thainews.prd.go.th/