Experts say ASEAN connectivity needs private sector involvemnt
While the planned launch of the ASEAN Economic Community is fast approaching, establishing good connectivity between member states to ensure a free flow of goods and services is a real challenge and needs more involvement from the private sector. That was the message delivered by Cambodian Foreign Minister Hor Namhong, who is also deputy prime minister, during the ASEAN Connectivity Symposium earlier this month in Phnom Penh. … The Asian Development Bank estimates that ASEAN will require infrastructure investment of approximately US$600 billion over the next 10 years, or about US$60 billion a year. Surin Pitsuwan, ASEAN secretary-general, said connectivity would never fully achieved if the bloc relied on government efforts alone. He said the private sector has an immense role to play. …
