Given their different social and economic backgrounds, it will
take Asian countries over 50 years to achieve economic integration,
said Long Yongtu, secretary-general of the Boao Forum for Asia
(BFA).
"Unlike European Union members, Asian countries have very
different historical and cultural backgrounds, economic development
and value systems," said Long, at a briefing for the 6th BFA on
Friday in Beijing.
According to Long, instead of seeking instant unification of
currency policies, which often symbolizes economic integration,
Asian countries should first increase cooperation on infrastructure
construction and the exchange of human resources.
Long said the free trade area set up by China and East Asian
countries is the first step toward integration.
The BFA is the only event that establishes a dialogue between
developing countries in Asia, and has played a unique role in
facilitating this integration, according to Long.
The 6th BFA, to be held from April 20 to April 22 on the island
province of Hainan, has invited more corporate and government
representatives from South Asia and Central Asia than in previous
years.
For instance, the manufacturing giant Tata Group from India has
been invited to participate in the forum for the first time.
"East Asia alone cannot sustain the overall development of the
whole Asian region," Long said. He said the upcoming forum will
emphasize innovation and sustainable development, in line with its
theme, "Asia: Searching for a Win-Win".
Topics will include sustainable social and economic development
in Asia, the impact of growth and innovation on specific
industries, corporate social responsibility and green agendas.
(China Daily April 7, 2007)