ASEAN meet concludes

Bhopal, Jan 9 (UNI) The three-day meeting of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) to foster better trade and exploring opportunities for export and import with the country concluded here today, with both sides deciding to move ahead with a flexible approach and to come up with a draft outline within two months.

Union Commerce and Industries Ministry Joint Secretary P K Das told UNI here today that both sides agreed for concessions on export and import of certain items. The discussion on concessions for export of tea, coffee, paper and palm oil was fruitful. A draft was expected within two months.

He said Madhya Pradesh emerged as a state with good tourism potential before ASEAN nations. Representatives were specially attracted to Buddhist tourist spot.

Mr Das said the next ASEAN meeting would be held in Laos where a draft could come up.

ASEAN was established in 1967. Member countries include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.

UNI SD-PS SB BD2131