The economy of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is expected to grow at 4.1 percent in 2021, said ASEAN Secretary-General Lim Jock Hoi via a video link at the 18th China-ASEAN Expo on Friday.
The COVID-19 pandemic has continued to impact the lives and livelihoods of ASEAN countries, and the regional economy contracted by 3.3 percent last year. It is, however, expected to recover with growth projected at 4.1 percent for this year and 5.3 percent for next year, said Lim Jock Hoi at the opening ceremony of the four-day expo.
Lim Jock Hoi added that China-ASEAN dialogue relations have "evolved into a multifaceted strategic partnership and shown tremendous progress on all fronts."
"I look forward to continuing and further strengthening these relations through concrete, practical, and meaningful collaborations," he added.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations.
Inaugurated in 2004, the annual expo is a principle platform for promoting trade and bilateral relations between China and the ASEAN.
Produced by Xinhua Global Service
