Asian`s People -Oriented Activities Discussed

JAKARTA (Bernama) - Asean Secretary-General Dr Surin Pitsuwan and
Indonesian Vice-President Boediono met Wednesday to discuss potential
initiatives to ignite the Asean spirit during Indonesia’s Chairmanship of the
regional grouping this year.

“The extensive list of people-oriented activities was drawn as a swift act
on President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s directive.

“With 16 flagship programmes to consider, the difficulty will be deciding
which will have the highest impact for our people’s wellbeing economically,
physically and in spirit,” said Dr Surin in a statement released by the Asean
Secretariat Wednesday.

The dynamic events and projects proposed will support Indonesia’s theme of
“Asean Community in a Global Community of Nations.” Each will have broad appeal,
help community building and contribute to the welfare of the people.

“We want to capture the mind and spirit of the whole of Asean – Leaders,
business communities, youth, women and vulnerable groups alike,” said Dr Surin.

Both Dr Surin and Vice-President Boediono agreed to maintain close relations
and dialogue in selecting project priorities. Some work has already begun, while
others will need to be explored for immediate opportunities.