4 Southeast Asian countries discuss enhancing regional development

VIENTIANE, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) — Leaders from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam (CLMV) gathered to exchange views and provide guidance on work plans for the continued development of the region, as well as facilitate trade activities.
The leaders gathered in Lao capital Vientiane on Wednesday for the 16th CLMV Economic Ministers’ Meeting, Lao Economic Daily reported on Thursday.
Speaking at the meeting, Lao Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaythong Kommasith highlighted that despite the complex global and regional environment, CLMV countries must strengthen unity and collaborate closely to overcome these challenges.
“The commitment of CLMV nations to achieve our shared vision of becoming a high middle-income region and a sustainable economic hub by 2030 remains strong. We are also aligned with the broader vision of establishing an ASEAN Economic Community by 2045,” said Malaythong.
Attendees noted the steady growth of CLMV’s trade in 2023, with the total merchandise reaching 768 billion U.S. dollars, accounting for 21.8 percent of ASEAN’s total trade value.
During the meeting, participants reviewed and adopted the report from the CLMV senior economic officials’ meeting and the CLMV action plan for 2025-2026. ■