ACD MINISTERIAL MEETING AFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO ENHANCING COOPERATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- The recent Ministerial Meeting of the
8th Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) in Colombo affirmed its commitment to
enhance regional and sub-regional economic cooperation, including trade
arrangements in Asia.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Foreign Minister I Senator A.
Kohilan Pillay.

The ACD said it could contribute to Asian economic integration and help
play a more effective role in shaping a fair and equitable world trading and
financial system and one which is more responsive to the needs of countries on
the continent.

In this regard, the Ministers underscored the need to enhance cooperation in
various areas including transportation,tourism and trade which would enhance
people-to-people contacts in Asia.

A statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the meeting
themed, "Spirit of Asia: Global Economic Recovery and Development Prospects",
discussed, among others, issues concerning the future direction of
the ACD, the current global economic and financial crisis, as well as prospects
for development in Asia.

The Ministers also deliberated on various international issues related to
climate change as well as the global response to natural disasters and
international terrorism which could pose significant challenges at the national,
regional and international levels.

The ACD Ministerial Meeting from Oct 14-15 was attended by all 31 member
countries.
-- BERNAMA