Southeast Asia to cooperate over food security

The issue of food security has hijacked the weekend trade meeting of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations on the Indonesian resort island.

Malaysian Trade Minister Muhyiddin Yassin says a statement due to be released on Saturday -- a day earlier than expected -- would include rice.

Indonesian Trade Minister Mari Pangestu says rice has been a key part of the discussions.

The meeting is also discussing efforts to build momentum for long-delayed world trade talks, as well as freeing up trade in ASEAN.