"During the 2008 crisis, ASEAN economies were affected too by the crisis, but thanks to the quick responses from all of us, we were able to rebound and get out of it faster. Now once again, we all have to prepare ourselves to face the current crisis, namely by implementing national and regional policy responses," said Boediono in his speech at the opening ceremony of the 43rd ASEAN Economic Ministerial Meeting in Manado to be held starting August 10 to 14.
The vice president also reminded ASEAN member states to focus their attention on ASEAN`s goal to form an economic community by 2015.
Meanwhile, Trade Minister Mari Pangestu who is also the chair of the 43rd ASEAN Economic Ministerial Meeting in her speech expressed hope that ASEAN would unite to create a response mechanism amid the current global crisis.
"There are many programs that we can implement to respond to the present uncertainties. We are midway in realizing the goal of forming an ASEAN Economic Community by 2015, we are located in a growing region of East Asia and we are also making progress in terms of economic integration," said Mari.
However, Mari noted the most important thing towards achieving the ASEAN Economic Community by 2015 was to ensure that all member states had already reached an inclusive equitable growth rate.
(T.A051/HAJM/F001)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
