Delegation: Republic of the Philippines

Committee: ASEAN

We the delegation of The Republic of the Philippines, speak on behalf of our government and all those committed to ASEAN. Having devoted attention regarding the application discussed in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) ministerial meeting on the last July 2011 we voted in favour of the approving Bangladesh to be part of the observer membership of ASEAN. We are expecting the good relations between ASEAN and Bangladesh would encourage and enhance the cooperation to achieve the common goals in trade and agriculture sector. By considering the development of Bangladesh, the Philippines believe that Bangladesh draws the attention of investment destination for ASEAN countries investors. The Philippines observed Bangladesh as one of the Asian countries that become the long-time leader in international peacekeeping operations. According to the United Nations data in 2009, Bangladesh has been the second-largest contributor to UN peacekeeping operation with 10,481 troops and police. In addition, Bangladesh has lied at the strategic cross-roads of South and Southeast Asia. However, the Philippines believe that the inclusion of Bangladesh will become a bridge between ASEAN and South Asia. Reaffirming the economic effort, the Philippines having examined that Bangladesh is a country with economic growth around 5 until 6 percent per year. Although one of the worlds poorest and most densely populated country, Bangladesh has made major strides to meet the food needs of its increasing population through increased domestic production augmented by imports. Even though, Bangladesh has also expanding its export base in garment and placed the 4th biggest country exporter (WTO est.). Furthermore, Bangladesh is the 20th largest stakeholder in ADB.

Due to the commitment of ASEAN included ARF in creating board cooperation with Asia-Pacific countries the achievement of regional stability and security within AsiaPacific are will not be achieve without establish a great relationship. The Philippines therefore welcome Bangladesh intention to join in ASEAN. With the approving of Bangladesh, the Philippines manifest its absolute will, to approve Bangladesh to become the observer member of ASEAN and its positive endorsement in the further participation in ASEAN.