Sultan sets agenda for Apec 2000

By Dita De Boni

Apec 2000 is resolved to continuing New Zealand's good work in balancing the interests of private enterprise with public welfare, according to the Sultan of Brunei.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Dararussalam - who piloted his own 747 to New Zealand for this weekend's flurry of Apec meetings - has signalled his intention to pay specific attention to three areas when the tiny, oil-rich nation holds next year's Apec summit.

Small and medium enterprises, human resources development and information technology will be on the agenda, as well as how Apec can help bridge the gap between developing and industrialised economies.

"The gulf in research and innovations between the developing and industrialised economies is wide and increasing," said the Sultan.

"The crucial first step towards avoiding this is for us to urgently narrow any gap which may still exist between and within economies."

Although Brunei's inhabitants enjoy free healthcare and education as well as untaxed earnings courtesy of the ruling family, the Sultan believes Apec's goal of trade liberalisation, investment and the creation of a business-friendly environment is still very important for the "still developing economy" of the country.