Trade tops Asean talks

Trade tops Asean talks

Foreign ministers from Southeast Asian nations will discuss preparations for the Asean Community and other regional issues during an informal meeting in Malaysia today, Foreign Ministry permanent secretary Sihasak Phuangketkeow says.

Foreign Minister Tanasak Patimapragorn will join his Asean counterparts at today's meeting. 

Mr Sihasak said preparations for the AC are the highlight of the meeting. Issues to be finalised include trade regulations under the Asean Economic Community (AEC) — one of the AC's three pillars. 

Regulations in each country will be changed, paving the way for free-flow trade and investment, said Mr Sihasak. Also tabled for discussion are issues related to transnational crime, problems with migrant workers and drug trafficking. These issues pose threats to national stability, he said. 

Mr Sihasak said disputes in the South China Sea will also be touched on because they involve the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei. 

Asked if internal politics will affect coordination between Asean members over the disputes, Mr Sihasak insisted Thailand can play a significant role in relations with China. 

"We have been playing a key part in discussions and have received feedback from Asean members because vital progress has been made to ease tensions in the South China Sea," Mr Sihasak said. Asean and China are working on a code of conduct to reduce territorial conflicts. 

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