Senior female representatives from China and ASEAN nations yesterday made a pledge in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, to step up efforts to open more women's training centers in a drive to improve women's place in the business world.

 

The signing of the pledge wrapped up the two-day China-ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs' Forum.

 

With the theme, "Strengthening Women's Cooperation, Promoting Common Development," the forum was held in conjunction with the 15th anniversary of the establishment of China-ASEAN dialogue.

 

More than 100 Asian businesswomen attended the forum, which was aimed at forming a community of caring societies, improving the standard of living for disadvantaged groups and promoting the involvement of women in various fields, particularly business.

 

Zhao Shaohua, vice president of the All-China Women's Federation, spoke highly of the forum, saying it serves as a platform for Asian women to exchange experiences and develop economic and social opportunities.

 

Yesterday's forum was the first of its kind, and will now be held every other year.

 

Visiting Brunei Princess Hajah Masna, and also ambassador at-large for the Brunei Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said the forum was an important step toward enhancing the friendship between Chinese and ASEAN women, saying both sides could collaborate to promote women's development.

 

She said the forum plays an important role in supporting and directing women, particularly in aiding the Plan of Action to Implement the Joint Declaration of the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity, which was signed in 2003.

 

Chan Jer Luang, honorary treasurer of Singapore's Council of Women's Organizations said ASEAN member states have already made progress in the advancement of women's issues and were happy to see China join in the regional cooperation.

 

(China Daily November 2, 2006)