At the recent 2024 “10+1” Statistical Cooperation Development Forum in Nanning, China, the Director of the National Bureau of Statistics, Kang Yi, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in statistical reform and innovation. During his address, he proposed joint research initiatives focused on areas such as digital economy accounting, green economy accounting, and the compilation of national balance sheets. He expressed a desire to enhance the modern capabilities of statistics to better serve the economic and social development of China and ASEAN.
Kang Yi called for the collective cultivation of modern statistical talents and stressed the establishment of a China-ASEAN Statistical Institute. He advocated for diverse exchange programs aimed at jointly training professionals in statistical applications. Furthermore, he highlighted the utilization of the China-United Nations Statistical Capacity Development Trust Fund to host training seminars directed at ASEAN countries, aimed at improving the professional skills and capabilities of statistical personnel from both China and ASEAN member states.
At the opening ceremony, Laos’ Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment and Director of the National Statistics Bureau, Phongsalay Suksavath, shared insights on the transformative power of statistical innovation, noting that Laos plans to conduct its fifth population and housing census in 2025. She expressed a commitment to strengthening regional cooperation mechanisms to ensure timely and effective sharing of data tools and expertise.
Similarly, the Director of the National Institute of Statistics of Cambodia, Treetya, highlighted that 2024 marks the beginning of implementing the Cambodia-China Community of Shared Future action plan. He expressed hope for expanded investment cooperation in emerging fields such as the digital economy and green development, as well as enhanced trade and investment facilitation and connectivity to drive more impactful and precise projects.
Annan Lasono, Director of the Statistics Division at the ASEAN Secretariat, remarked on the positive contributions of the China-ASEAN Statistical Forum over the past decade, noting that it has become a crucial link and important platform for facilitating statistical communication and collaboration between the governments of China and ASEAN countries.
