SINGAPORE : ASEAN economic ministers met with China's commerce representatives on Wednesday, as part of the 40th ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting currently taking place in Singapore.

The ministers discussed the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation between ASEAN and China, including the review of the Trade in Goods Agreement and ASEAN-China Investment Agreement.

In particular, they underscored the importance of concluding the investment agreement by the 12th ASEAN-China Summit to be held in December. The agreement is part of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area.

Progress was also made in finalising memorandums of understanding on intellectual property and technical barriers to trade between China and the regional grouping.

Meanwhile, ASEAN economic ministers hosted a special birthday surprise for Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Peter Favila, who celebrates his 60th birthday on Wednesday.

It was a moment of respite for the ministers, who had just wrapped up consultations with various business councils.

Mr Favila also had the opportunity to unwind later in the evening when the delegates ended the day with a game of golf. - CNA/ms