Brussels: By invitation Director-General of Vietnam Customs and Director-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Customs Dr. This year’s meeting, WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders Almost stock 13th ASEAN – World Customs Organization (WCO) Consultation on 5 June 2024. This annual consultation, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs meeting, provides a unique opportunity for bilateral discussions to enhance cooperation.
In his opening remarks, Secretary-General Sanders expressed his sincere gratitude to ASEAN members for their continued support of the WCO and acknowledged the history of strong engagement between the two organizations. He appreciated the active participation of ASEAN members in the work of the WCO, noting that sharing their real-world experience helps guide the activities of the organization.
During the consultation, Secretary-General Sanders outlined the WCO’s recent key achievements and updates, which will be reported to the Policy Commission and the Council, including the operational status of the strategic plan, a potential strategic review of the Harmonized System and a proposal. Resolution to Strengthen Customs-Industrial Resilience. In addition, he provided insights from the 2024 Customs Environmental Scan and the WCO Modernization Plan. He also updated the audience on the state of preparation for capacity-building activities planned for the new financial year.
The Head of the Regional Office for Asia/Pacific (ROCB A/P) provided detailed information on capacity-building activities conducted by the WCO for ASEAN members. These activities include workshops and human resource development programmes. He expressed appreciation for their cooperation in organizing regional workshops and expressed readiness to support regional members.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperative relationships to advance the goals of facilitating legitimate trade, ensuring fair revenue collection and protecting society.