(KPL) – The 14th ASEAN Community Statistical Committee Meeting concluded on November 28 in Vientiane, marking progress in advancing regional data integration and sustainability under the theme "Enhancing Data Integration to Move Towards Regional Connectivity and Sustainability."

Ms. Phonesaly Souksavath, Director of the National Statistical Center under the Ministry of Planning and Investment of Laos, outlined the outcomes of the meeting. She highlighted key achievements, including advancing the 2024 ASEAN Statistical Committee Plan to meet data demands for monitoring connectivity among ASEAN member states.

Discussions focused on providing relevant and timely statistics in areas such as SDG indicators, national accounts, foreign direct investment, international trade, and economic and social data, enhancing the analytical efficiency of ASEAN’s statistical system.

The committee also launched the ASEAN Statistical Collection API (ASI-CT) to improve data integration and sharing across member states. A draft work plan for 2026-2030, along with key performance indicators (KPIs), was also developed to align with ASEAN’s evolving priorities.

Notably, the meeting approved a conceptual framework for establishing a Virtual Education Institute, with plans to begin platform development next year.

Under the ASEAN-Assistance-ASEAN Cooperation (AHAF) framework, capacity-building activities such as workshops and technical assistance have been implemented since 2021. These initiatives aim to strengthen statistical systems and ensure effective responses to regional development challenges.

Ms. Souksavath emphasized the committee’s commitment to enhancing statistical capacity and data management, supporting ASEAN’s current and post-2025 statistical strategies. These efforts aim to foster sustainable growth, drive informed decision-making, and support the post-2025 ASEAN Strategic Plan and regional initiatives.

KPL