PHNOM PENH: Cambodia officially convened the 35th Asean Customs Directors-General Meeting in Phnom Penh on Tuesday (June 2).
The forum has brought together customs leaders from across South-East Asia to exchange views and strengthen cooperation. The three-day meeting runs from June 2 to June 4.
Chaired by Kun Nhem, director-general of the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), it will serve as an important platform for Asean customs directors-general to discuss matters related to trade facilitation, customs procedures and law enforcement, and capacity building.
Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth addressed the opening ceremony.
He welcomed the regional customs officials, as well as the representatives of the Asean Secretariat, thanking them for their constructive participation and strong commitment to advancing Asean customs cooperation.
“The presence of Asean customs delegates here today reflects our shared commitment to strengthening regional integration and ensuring that Asean remains resilient, dynamic and forward-looking,” he said.
He noted that the annual meeting provides an important opportunity for delegates to exchange perspectives, deepen cooperation and identify practical approaches to maintaining their shared commitments.
Over the three days, participants will review progress achieved by sectoral bodies and working groups, while also considering and approving key guidelines and roadmaps under the Asean customs framework.
Pornmoniroth expressed confidence that the active participation and valuable contributions of customs delegates from Asean member states and officials from the Asean Secretariat would further strengthen an effective and resilient Asean customs community.
The meeting is held regularly to assess progress in implementing Asean Custom agreements and determine appropriate policy measures. Cambodia previously hosted the event in 2016. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
