DFA invites car enthusiasts to attend Asean-India Car Rally

MANILA, Oct 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has reiterated its invitation to car rally enthusiasts to take part in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean)-India Car Rally from November 25 to December 20.

The rally aims to create public awareness about Asean-India relations; promote connectivity; demonstrate India’s proximity with its Asean neighbors; enhance trade, investment, tourism and people-to-people links between India and Asean member-states, a statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

The Asean-India Car Rally 2012 will begin in Jogjakarta, Indonesia on November 25. The drivers will go through Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR), Thailand and Myanmar. The last leg, which will be in New Delhi, India, is expected to be completed on December 20.

The event will be non-competitive. The organizers will shoulder the cost of fuel and basic board and lodging. Participants will be responsible for their visas and their respective airfares to Jogjakarta, Indonesia and from New Delhi, India.

The rally format will allow a maximum of two official teams from each Asean country and India. Each team will be composed of four persons each. The participating nation is free to bring its own vehicle, but the organizers can provide vehicles, if necessary.

“The Asean-India Car Rally will no doubt raise awareness about the many facets of our country’s relations with India, from the historical and geographic ties to the immense potential for trade and investments,” said Assistant Secretary for Asean Affairs and Asean Director-General for the Philippines Teresita G. Barsana.

Interested parties may contact the DFA Office of Asean Affairs. Deadline of applications will be on October 13. Look for Ralf Roldan, principal assistant or Arlene Pascasio-Racho, assistant, at 834-3755. Interested parties may also send an e-mail to [email protected].

“As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Asean-India Dialogue Relations, I enjoin car enthusiasts in the Philippines to take advantage of this rare opportunity by participating in the Asean-India Car Rally,” Assistant Secretary Barsana added. (DFA/PIA PND)

Sourced: pia.gov