Bangkok, Thailand - July 15, 2002 (PRN):The Department of Export Promotion (DEP), Ministry of Commerce, Royal Thai Government entrusted as the fair organizers, hosted the official launch function of the ASEAN Trade Fair 2002 (ATF 2002) on January 24, 2002 to a captivated audience of ambassadors and representatives from all the ASEAN member countries, the business community, as well as the regional and international press members. His Excellency Dr. Adisai Bodharamik, the Minister of Commerce, presided over the event while Director-General of the DEP, Mr. Banpot Hongthong led the fair organizing committee in welcoming their guests.

In his keynote speech, Dr. Adisai Bodharamik said: "ASEAN is a synergy; it is more than the sum of its parts. Our diversity is our strength. With resources in varied fields such as agriculture, food, the automotive industry, technology, and fashion, we can pool these assets to thrive in even most adverse economic conditions, and while other countries question the impact of globalization, our community of nations will rest easier knowing that we have a strong foundation to build upon.

"The ASEAN Trade Fair is an arena to exhibit our strengths; our potential is largely untapped, waiting to be explored. Millions of opportunities propel us towards regional affluence and economic stability. We must increase our level of competitiveness as a region as we maintain our vision of economic prosperity. We must build on the foundation that is ASEAN," he added.

ATF 2002 will introduce a new dimension to the region's growing trade and investment communities, thanks largely to the dedicated efforts of everyone concerned. The fair aims to attract trade visitors from around the world and generate global interest in the region's production expertise. The ASEAN Trade Fair 2002 will be held at the Impact Exhibition Center, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Thailand from October 14-20, 2002.

For more information, contact:

ASEAN Trade Fair 2002 Secretariat
Department of Export Promotion
Ministry of Commerce
Tel: 66 2511 6020-30 Ext. 762, 764
Fax: 66 2511 6008-10
E-Mail: atf2002@depthai.go.th
www.depthai.go.th
www.thaitrade.com
www.aseantradefair.com

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