13 July 2017 MANILA – The Philippines, as Chair of ASEAN in 2017, steered ASEAN towards the effective implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 by hosting the MPAC 2025 Forum on Initiative and Project Concepts from July 12 to 13 in Alabang, Muntinlupa.
The Forum brought together approximately 150 delegates, in particular the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee (ACCC), National Coordinators and National Focal Points for MPAC 2025, Dialogue Partners, relevant ASEAN Sectoral bodies and implementing agencies, ASEAN Dialogue Partners, international organisations and other external parties.
As a result of the consultative Forum among key stakeholders, ASEAN has achieved a milestone in moving forward in the development of key initiatives identified in MPAC 2025 into practical projects for implementation by the ASEAN Member States.
“This Forum is indeed timely as it would lay the foundations towards the implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity, through consultation and coordination with all concerned stakeholders on the development of MPAC 2025 projects”, said Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso, Philippine Permanent Representative to ASEAN and Chairperson of the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee (ACCC).
The Master Plan, which was adopted by the ASEAN Leaders on 06 September 2016, outlines ASEAN’s commitment to pursuing regional connectivity, through initiatives involving the enhancement of trade routes and logistics and enhancement of supply chain efficiency; harmonization of standards; increased transparency and reduce trade-distorting non-tariff measures; enhancement and facilitation of travel; establishment of new vocational training programmes and common qualifications across ASEAN member states; and support of higher educational exchanges
The meeting deliberated on the specific activities of each MPAC 2025 initiatives, delved into the respective project management and implementation arrangements, and highlighted the risks to implementation of MPAC 2025 projects. The Forum also underscored the importance of leveraging on the expertise available, drawing on the synergies created by related initiatives, and harnessing the support of internal and external stakeholders to advance the implementation of MPAC 2025.
