Three economies wait to join RCEP

10 Sept 05:27 Key points summarised by AI

Chile, Hong Kong, and Sri Lanka have formally expressed their desire to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world's largest free trade agreement.
RCEP members are currently working to finalize the Accession Procedures (AP), a critical step for admitting new members, though consensus on pre-screening processes is still being sought.
The ASEAN-led RCEP currently comprises 15 members, encompassing nearly 30% of global GDP and population, with intra-member trade reaching US$1.9 trillion last year.
The ASEAN Secretariat has established the RCEP Support Unit (RSU) to oversee member countries, appointing Mr. Taufig Wargadalam as its inaugural executive director.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.