(VNF) - From August 1-4, 80 students and young professionals from 10 ASEAN countries will attend a workshop on economic development in Hanoi, where they will learn about and discuss the most preparing issues facing economic growth in Southeast Asia.

The participating youth aged from 18-25 were selected for the prestigious workshop based on their outstanding track record and interest in economic engagement at the community, national, and regional levels.

The workshop is hosted by the U.S Mission in Vietnam in collaboration with Kenan Foundation Asia and the Center for Sustainable Studies.

The participating youth aged from 18-25 were selected for the prestigious workshop based on their outstanding track record and interest in economic engagement at the community, national, and regional levels. Through presentations, plenary sessions, panel discussions, and site visits in the Hanoi area, these participants will acquire a comprehensive view of the AEC, U.S – ASEAN trade relations, and best practices in balancing economic growth and sustainable development.

Participants will visit companies and organizations to learn about economic opportunities in the age of integration.

U.S Ambassador to Vietnam Ted Osuis and young leaders

Speaking to the participants during the opening ceremony, the United States Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr. Ted Osuis, highlighted that “there are nearly 410 million people under the age of 35 in the ASEAN region. You are the ones who are going to shape policy in your countries and the region in the future; the ones who are going to drive the economy; and promote positive change for a more prosperous and inclusive society.’’

During the workshop, youth will participate in role-playing activities in which they will be challenged to view ASEAN economic questions from the perspective of perse stakeholders, helping them experience the multiple viewpoints that go into the ASEAN policy development. On the final day, a model ASEAN summit will be held, where participants will demonstrate the content knowledge and skills they developed over the first three days to collaborate with their peers to develop regional policies./.

Ngoc Tran