Rody welcomes ASEAN Connectivity 2025 support

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday affirmed the importance given by the Philippines on the strategic role of the APT Cooperation in community-building efforts, underscoring the 65 mechanisms in place.

In his first speaking engagement during the 22nd ASEAN Plus Three (APT) Summit, Duterte said that the Philippines welcomes the continued support of the countries comprising the Plus Three — namely, China, Japan and Republic of Korea — for the Master Plan for ASEAN Connectivity 2025.

The President said that he is welcoming China’s strong commitment to support the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), citing that this sub-regional cooperation framework jumpstarts development in the remotest and least developed areas in the region, such as Mindanao.

According to Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo, President mentioned its Expanded Partnership for Quality Infrastructure with Japan, which helps build state-of-the-art infrastructure networks in the region, like the first subway system in the Philippines.

On the Republic of Korea, Duterte also recognized its views on innovation and smart city developments, and lauded the ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN).

Panelo noted that Duterte also viewed the ASEAN Mutual Recognition Arrangements as a measure that strengthens people-to-people connections and said in the summit to consider harmonizing standards on nurses and other healthcare professionals.

The President likewise manifested that he looks forward to the conclusion of the negotiations on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).