No substitute for Asean even as South-east Asian countries express interest in joining Brics: Vivian

SINGAPORE – Even though several South-east Asian countries have expressed interest in joining the Brics economic bloc, there is no substitute for Asean, said Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.

Earlier in June, Thailand and Malaysia revealed that they plan to join Brics, a group of emerging economies led by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa that is seen to be challenging the Western-led global order.Dr Balakrishnan highlighted that Asean has signed trade pacts with countries such as China, South Korea and Japan.

“As long as these measures lead to greater openness, inclusiveness, a level playing field and make member states more attractive for investments and promote trade, we’re in support of all these exploratory nodes,” he added. On June 26, he delivered the opening remarks at the coordinating meeting of the Thailand-Singapore Civil Service Exchange Programme.

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and his Thai counterpart Maris Sangiampongsa jointly officiated the 14th coordinating meeting of the Thailand-Singapore Civil Service Exchange Programme. PHOTO: SINGAPORE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

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