THE CARIBBEAN ASEAN COUNCIL AIMS TO ENHANCE ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL TIES BETWEEN SOUTHEAST ASIA AND THE CARIBBEAN.
On Friday, Oct. 20, Dr. Matthew Pajares-Yngson, Representative Councillor of the Caribbean ASEAN Council paid a courtesy call on Mr. Guillaume Simon, acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs.
The Caribbean ASEAN Council functions as a conduit between Southeast Asia and the Caribbean to strengthen and enhance cultural and economic ties within the two regions. It was founded in 2016 and is recognized by the United Nations as a partner of the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Dr. Pajares highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between Saint Lucia and the countries of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam. He emphasized the need for tourism and trading, especially with the advancement of the digital economy.
Acting Permanent Secretary Simon expressed his gratitude to Dr. Matthew for his enthusiasm in wanting to explore greater economic opportunities and exchanges between Saint Lucia and Southeast Asia.
Saint Lucia has made strides in strengthening its relations with ASEAN countries, with the recent signing of the Visa Waiver Agreement between Saint Lucia and Indonesia, and the presentation of credentials of the newly appointed non-resident Indonesian Ambassador to Saint Lucia, Mr. Imam Edy Mulyono.
Mr. Simon also reassured Dr. Pajares that the Government of Saint Lucia is working diligently to strengthen ties with the ASEAN region and his visit allowed a greater discourse and exploration of the various avenues that can be beneficial to Saint Lucia and its people.