In the News

Economics minister seals ADOC deals in Russia

Economics Minister ShihYen-shiang (third from left) explains how ADOC can assist APEC economies as ROC Representative to Russia Antonio C.S. Chen (right) and the heads of the local chambers of commerce look on. (Courtesy of MOEA)

• Publication Date：06/06/2012
• Source： Taiwan Today
• By  Meg Chang

Shih Yen-shiang, ROC economics minister, inked agreements June 5 for the opening of two Asia-Pacific Economic Forum Digital Opportunity Centers (ADOC) in Russia.

The agreements, which cover centers in Kazan and Orenburg, were finalized between Shih and the heads of the local chambers of commerce at a ceremony in Kazan.

According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Kazan center commenced operations on the same day of the ceremony, with the Orenburg facility expected to be up and running by the end of the month.

The new centers will be the second and third in Russia following one set up last year in Yaroslavl, the MOEA said.

Initiated by Taiwan during the 2003 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders meeting in Bangkok, the ADOC Project assists small and medium businesses and disadvantaged groups to transform digital divides into digital opportunities.

Since its implementation in 2004, the project has created 92 training centers in 10 APEC economies such as Chile, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam. APEC estimates that over 300,000 people have benefited from the initiative. (JSM)

Write to Meg Chang at sfchang@mail.mofa.gov.tw