The 41st ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting (STOM) opened in the Philippines’ capital city of Manila on April 26, discussing initiatives to further bolster transportation connections in the region.

The event drew the participation of 120 senior transport officials, representatives from the ten member countries, and dialogue partners of the bloc, including China, the European Union (EU), Japan, the Republic of Korea and Russia.

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In his opening speech, the host country’s Assistant Secrectary of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOCT) Sherielysse Bonifacio said the event will create favourable conditions for ASEAN member states to continue their collaboration in the area.

It also expects to intensify regional affiliation and increase the quality of life for people, he added.

According to the DOCT, the transport sector will also implement new projects and programs, after the STOM passes the Kuala Lumpur Transport Strategic Plan (ASEAN Transport Strategic Plan) for 2016-2025.

The strategic plan addresses 30 pragmatic goals, and 78 action programs in five areas including air, road, sea, substantial transportation and transport infrastructure, and will serve as a guide for ASEAN economic integration during 2016-2025.

The event will run until April 28.

Source: VNA