ASEAN++ Bridge Forum seeks to enhance connectivity for sustainable development

Cao Thi Ngoc Dung, chairwoman of the Ho Chi Minh City Women Entrepreneurs Association, emphasised that the event serves as a bridge to encourage investment among businesses in ASEAN++ countries, thereby creating opportunities to restore long-term growth and sustainable development for the regional business community in the post-pandemic period.

Phan Thi Thang, vice chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, affirmed that the bloc holds an important position in the country’s foreign policy and international integration.

Most notably, during the challenging period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam worked closely alongside the wider ASEAN community through sharing experiences in pandemic prevention and control efforts, providing support for medical supplies and equipment, as well as devising policies for economic recovery.

Thang emphasised that Vietnam in general and Ho Chi Minh City in particular have been experiencing a strong recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, with positive economic indicators recorded during the eight-month period.

Ho Chi Minh City is also speeding up the implementation of the tasks set out during the 2020 - 2025 term by applying science and technology in production, increasing labour productivity, and developing digital, circular, sharing, and green economies for the future, she said.

Moreover, the implementation of solutions to develop the circular economy is a responsibility toward deploying new-generation free trade agreements that Vietnam has signed, she added.

During the event, experts pointed out that ASEAN will be one of the most attractive investment destinations for financiers thanks to its strategic geographical location, favourable business climate, and tax incentives and free trade agreements (FTAs).

They agreed that ASEAN member countries as a united bloc move towards a low-emission economy to maximise advantages for sustainable development.