Brian Jeffrey
| Photograph by VNA/VNS featuring Minister of Foreign Affairs Bùi Thanh Sơn |
On the commemoration of the 57th founding anniversary of ASEAN, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bùi Thanh Sơn, shares insights in an article titled ‘ASEAN: A Journey of Regional Cohesion and Resilience’ from Vietnam News Agency.
Here is a summarized translation of the article:
ASEAN’s journey commenced 57 years ago with the Bangkok Declaration in 1967, highlighting aspirations for lasting peace and prosperity. Overcoming historical divisions, ASEAN emerged as a hub of unity and cooperation in Southeast Asia, playing a pivotal role in the Asia-Pacific with its mission of peace, stability, cooperation, and development.
Unity in Purpose and Vision
Concepts framed three decades ago have been the foundation for ASEAN’s cohesion across time, space, and strategy, striving to build a politically united, economically integrated, and socially responsible community in alignment with the ASEAN Charter.
ASEAN envisioned a resilient, dynamic, innovative, and people-centric future with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 to adapt to unpredictable circumstances and maintain a proactive response capability.
Adaptability in a Changing Landscape
ASEAN represents unity, continuous effort, and resilience in the face of challenges and adversity, tackling global and regional changes with a firm economic integration stance, positioning itself as a major economy attracting considerable investments.
The alliance emphasizes its political-security cooperation role, championing standards of conduct and enhancing mechanisms to support stability, cooperation, and sustainability, particularly in maritime spaces and related disputes.
With community-oriented initiatives like the Public Health Emergency Coordination System and the Climate Change Centre, ASEAN upholds its commitment to improving the livelihoods of its people and strengthening community identity through successful cooperative endeavors.
Vietnam’s Commitment to ASEAN
Since joining ASEAN in 1995, Vietnam has been an active contributor, transitioning from fulfilling member duties to leading strategic initiatives and hosting crucial forums like the 2024 ASEAN Future Forum, showcasing Vietnam’s dedication to a flourishing, sustainable ASEAN Community.
Former General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng’s vision on ASEAN reflects the importance Vietnam places on regional cooperation, aligning national interests harmoniously with the region’s interests, underscoring Vietnam’s unwavering commitment to ASEAN’s unity and resilience. VNS
(1) ASEAN Vision 2020, adopted at the 1997 ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
(2) 2023 Annual Report of the ASEAN Secretary-General.
