In order to increase the benefits of this Agreement for the newer ASEAN Member States, and in accordance with the objectives and principles set out in the Preamble and Articles 1 (Objective) and 2 (Guiding Principles), Member States recognise the importance of according special and differential treatment to the newer ASEAN Member States, through:

(a) technical assistance to strengthen their capacity in relation to investment policies and promotion, including in areas such as human resource development;

(b) commitments in areas of interest to the newer ASEAN Member States; and

(c) recognising that commitments by each newer ASEAN Member State may be made in accordance with its individual stage of development.