Preparations for Asean summit reflect Vietnam's will

Preparations for the upcoming ASEAN 16th summit should demonstrate Vietnam's willingness for integration and development, Vietnam news agency (VNA) cited Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Gia Khiem, as saying.

Speaking at the fourth preparatory meeting of the National Committee for the ASEAN summit next month, Khiem, who is also head of the committee, stressed the importance of successfully organising the event, and asked the committee to strengthen co-operation with other offices to guarantee smooth execution of planned activities.

He also has asked relevant agencies to maintain close co-operation in preparation for activities for the ASEAN year 2010 after conducting a meeting to review this year's progress.

At the summit scheduled on April 8 and 9, leaders will discuss ways to develop the ASEAN Community over the next five years, including implementing the ASEAN Charter and boosting inter-regional cooperation.

A key issue will be enhancing the region's ability to cope with emerging challenges.

Many economic experts previously said that ASEAN integration would make the region an attractive competitor in terms of trade and investment.

This year, Vietnam assumes ASEAN presidency.