JAKARTA, Jan 19 – ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn inaugurated the first Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR) meeting in 2024, chaired by Laos, at the ASEAN Secretariat on Thursday.
In his opening remarks, Kao underscored the significance of Laos’ chosen theme, ‘ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,’ considering it timely amid the current geopolitical and geo-economic landscape.
He emphasised key priorities for ASEAN, stressing the importance of unity, centrality, economic integration, openness, and connectivity for regional resilience.
While encouraging the adoption of technology and digitalisation to foster regional growth, he stressed the commitment to inclusivity by underlining the importance of protecting vulnerable groups.
He urged investment in the region’s youth, recognising their vital role in shaping ASEAN’s future.
Kao expressed the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to support Laos throughout its ASEAN chairmanship in 2024.
The meeting, attended by the Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN, Ambassador Datuk Nur Izzah Wong Mee Choo, delved into various issues early in the year.
The CPR delved into various issues early in the year, covering priorities of the Laos ASEAN Chairmanship, matters related to ASEAN Community Building, and tasks awaiting the CPR concerning ASEAN’s External Relations.
