ASEAN leaders address World Economic Forum

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen spoke hopefully about ASEAN nations on May 11, the opening day of the World Economic Forum, which Cambodia is hosting the for the first time.

“Cambodia is optimistic that it will see this century allow ASEAN get ahead not only economically but also in the technology field,” he said.

The 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations is a growing economic force, and is now the sixth- or seventh-largest economy in the world.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte also addressed the forum, with a very different message.

We need to take a committed stand to dismantle and destroy the illegal drugs trade apparatus,” Duterte insisted.

“We must reaffirm our commitment to realize a drug free ASEAN community.”

The three-day event will focus on youth, technology and growth in the region, according to World Economic Forum.