The 3rd ASEAN Conference on Human Resources took place in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, focusing on developing skills to create a highly mobile and skilled workforce in ASEAN.

The one-day forum, organised by Cambodia's Ministry of Labour, was attended by senior officials from ASEAN member states and representatives from national and international organisations and development partners.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Cambodia's Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Men Sam On, said that the conference provides an excellent opportunity for ASEAN countries and their development partners to share their experiences in both developing skills and information about labour.

It will also help to improve regional cooperation and sustainable development and narrow the development gap between countries in the region, she added.

The conference focused on stepping up the development of human resources in ASEAN countries to address the qualitative needs of the labour market.

It also discussed how to manage and harmonise a skilled and mobile workforce within the member states.

ASEAN workers will be able to move freely between the bloc’s member states in 2015 when ASEAN becomes a fully integrated community.

Source: VNA