We discussed the pivotal role of education in ASEAN in promoting human resources development, bridging the development gap, enhancing regional competitiveness, promoting sustained economic development, and facilitating friendship and mutual understanding among people in the region.
With regard to the problem of poaching of and illicit trade in endangered and protected wildlife and living marine resources, ASEAN welcomed U.S. support in combating illicit trade in wildlife, and both sides agreed to explore future cooperation in this area.
We looked forward to further progress on the ASEAN-U.S. Connectivity Cooperation Initiative, supported by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), including engaging U.S. private sector resources to help ASEAN implement the MPAC.