Malaysian Minister Attends ASEAN Economic Ministers' Retreat In Chiangmai

By Mohd Haikal Mohd Isa CHIANGMAI, March 3 (Bernama) -- The 22nd ASEAN Economic Ministers' Retreat kicked off Thursday with trade and economic ministers from the regional grouping attending the two-day meeting which began Wednesday. Malaysian International Trade and Industry Minister Mustapa Mohamed represented Malaysia at Thursday's meeting, which was chaired by Laos Industry and Commerce Minister Khemmani Pholsena. Senior officials met Wednesday before proceeding with the ministerial level meeting Thursday which, among others, would discuss important issues related to the region's economy, trade and investment. Also on the agenda is the 14th AEM and European Union (EU) Trade Commissioner Consultation. Both parties are expected to hold a joint media conference later Thursday evening. Under a rotational system, Laos took over the chairmanship of ASEAN from Malaysia, which helmed the organisation, last year. -- BERNAMA