MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Alexander Downer, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Mark Vaile, Minister for Trade
We are pleased to announce the introduction of new measures to further
promote economic integration and competitiveness in the ASEAN region.
These include support for a legal structure to underpin e-commerce, the
mutual recognition of skills between countries and the promotion of quality
assurance systems for fish and fishery products and fruit and vegetables grown
in ASEAN nations.
The four projects totalling $5.16 million will be funded by the Australian
Government's overseas aid program and are part of a six-year $45 million
ASEAN-Australia Development Cooperation Program (AADCP). They are due to
commence shortly.
Australia is a strong supporter of ASEAN members integrating into one market
for goods, services and investment as we recognise the benefits that can be
derived from the removal of trade barriers, the easy transfer of goods and
services and labour mobility.
Through the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and Australia and New Zealand (CER)
Closer Economic Partnership (CEP), Australia is actively promoting trade and
investment with ASEAN and encouraging regional economic integration. Economic
competitiveness will enable the private sector and small to medium enterprises
to develop, especially in the large food and agricultural sector.
The AADCP is an important part of Australia's overall development assistance
to the region which in 2003-2004 will amount to an estimated $395 million. The
Program complements efforts by Southeast Asian countries to improve economic
governance and strengthen regional integration in the wake of the 1997 Financial
Crisis.
The AADCP is consistent with the emphasis the Australian Government's aid
program places on good governance and the importance of economic growth in
reducing poverty.
Media inquiries:
Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's office) 02 6277 7500 or 0419 206 890
Matthew Doman (Mr Vaile's office) 02 6277 7420 or 0418 273
475