Improve ASEAN cooperation

Improve ASEAN cooperation

In order to meet the swelling tide of globalization, free
trade and openness regarding economic policies, all of which lead
to intensified competition, efforts are needed to improve
cooperation among ASEAN's member countries. Even more, a synergy
of efforts between government and business; among businesses
within ASEAN; and among ASEAN businesses and those outside the
organization should be established.

Speaking in this context, the chairman of the ASEAN Chamber of
Commerce and Industry, Aburizal Bakrie, suggested that ASEAN
countries start practicing openness in matters of economic policy
in order to facilitate cooperation. Aburizal pointed to the
egoism that exists in private business and government circles in
this region. This egoism, he said, should be discarded
immediately because in matters of trade the question of
nationality is no longer of interest to anyone. The important
thing, according to Aburizal, is that anyone can take advantage
of the potentials in this region.

One of the points on the ASEAN agenda is the establishment of
an ASEAN Single Market. It seems impossible, however, to realize
such a single market as long as egoism and self-interest continue
to prevail among ASEAN's members. Advanced countries are turning
their attention to this region. Indonesia is seen primarily as a
country with an abundance of natural resources as well as a
decent growth rate. Improved living standards in a large
population make for a potential market for goods which those
countries produce.

For us, the important thing of course is how to make the best
use of the available potentials in order to improve people's
well-being.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta