Senior women representatives from China and other ASEAN nations yesterday pledged 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 the China-ASEAN relationship.

 

More than 100 Asian businesswomen attended the forum, intended to form a community of caring societies, improve the standard of living for disadvantaged groups and promote 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, ambassador at-large for the Brunei Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said the forum was an important step towards enhancing ASEAN women's and Chinese women's friendship, saying both sides could collaborate in practical projects and measures to promote women's development.

 

She said the forum could play an important role in supporting and directing women, particularly to aid 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 the ASEAN member states have already made progress in the advancement of women and were happy to see China join in the regional co-operation.

 

(China Daily November 2, 2006)