At the international forum in Kazan, key areas of cooperation between the EAEU and ASEAN were discussed.

      Partnership within the EAEU – ASEAN, cooperation in the fields of energy, infrastructure, and industrial cooperation were discussed today at the session of the Russia – ASEAN business forum in Kazan. The discussion took place at the IT Park named after Bashir Rameev. As reported by the moderator, member of the board (minister) for integration and macroeconomics of the Eurasian Economic Commission Daniyar Imanaliev, an effective dialogue has currently been established between the EAEU and ASEAN, and infrastructure for interaction has been created. In 2018, a memorandum was signed, and the first cooperation program was implemented. "Last year, a new five-year cooperation program was approved until 2030. We are cooperating on 14 key areas," said Imanaliev. In particular, this cooperation includes issues of product certification, digitalization, transport and logistics development, and energy. The interaction covers a wide range of issues. A network of trade agreements has been established with Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore. Negotiations are underway with Cambodia and Thailand. "We participate in official events at different levels every year. A dialogue has been established between the expert community," noted the speaker. The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry of the Philippines, Allan B. Gephti, in his speech highlighted additional opportunities and growth points for developing mutually beneficial cooperation. He stated that today the global economy is facing uncertainty. However, the forum taking place in Kazan and similar events create excellent opportunities for improving life in the regions. The economies of ASEAN countries are developing dynamically. "Our population is approaching 680 million people. This is not only a huge consumer market but also a powerful production base integrated into the global community. ASEAN countries are actively developing electronics, agriculture, digital services, energy, and logistics. ASEAN is an important participant in global trade and innovations," said the speaker. He added that ASEAN countries are expanding partnerships with Russia and the EAEU. Industry, infrastructure, and digital services are actively developing. Participants of the session also discussed priority areas of cooperation with business. The Deputy General Director for interaction with residents, development of engineering potential, and operation of the SEZ "Alabuga," Timur Mingazov, announced the intention to build long-term cooperation with ASEAN countries. This involves cooperation in microelectronics, equipment, and joint developments, including those related to AI. From June 17 to 19, Kazan is hosting the Russia – Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit. The heads of ASEAN member states will determine the guidelines for further cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, energy, agriculture, digitalization, science, technology and innovation, education, tourism, and others during the forum.

      Photo: © Salavat Kamaletdinov / "Tatar-inform"