Path ahead for BIMP-EAGA needs innovation, political will, says President Marcos Jr

Photo: Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: The path ahead for the Brunei Darussalam-indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) calls for greater innovation and political will, says Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The Philippine President, who chaired the 16th BIMP-EAGA Summit on Tuesday (May 27), said this year’s summit holds special significance as it marked eight years of remarkable progress since the adoption of BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025.

“Since 2017, our cooperation has deepened, and partnerships have delivered tangible benefits for the people.

“Together, we have laid down stronger foundations for inclusive, sustainable and innovation driven growth,” he said in his opening remarks.

He said joint initiatives in connectivity, trade and investment facilitation, ecotourism, redevelopment and more, reinforces commitment in narrowing the development gap for the future.

“Let us take this opportunity to not only celebrate these milestones but also affirm our shared vision for a more integrated, prosperous and resilient BIMP-EAGA,” he said.

Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Brunei Sultan His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Indonesia president Prabowo Subianto, Asean secretary-general Dr Kao Kim Hourn and Asian Development Bank president Masato Kanda.

Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan were also among those present.