SINGAPORE: Singapore will host the 40th ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) and Related Meetings from August 25-29.

Singapore's Trade and Industry Minister, Lim Hng Kiang will be chairing the meetings, which also marks the 40th anniversary of the ASEAN Economic Ministers' Meeting.

A statement from the Trade and Industry Ministry on Friday said the ministers will focus on ASEAN integration issues and the grouping's relations with Dialogue Partners.

Discussions on ASEAN integration issues will centre on the goal of realising an ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) by 2015.

Consultations with Dialogue Partners will focus on matters pertaining to the Free Trade Agreements and economic cooperation activities.

On regional architecture matters, the ministers will look at the reports of the expert groups on these issues, and will discuss possible approaches ASEAN can take in wider regional groupings.

The AEM and Related Meetings will be held at the Shangri-La Hotel.

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