Vietnam Champions Regional Unity as ASEAN Celebrates Over five Decades of Progress
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam - A recent gathering in Ho Chi Minh City underscored the strong bonds of solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and its fellow member states within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The event served as a platform to celebrate ASEAN’s 58-year journey and reaffirm Vietnam’s commitment to the organization’s continued success.
Phan Thi Hong Xuan, Chairwoman of the Vietnam – ASEAN Friendship Association in HCM City, lauded ASEAN’s formation and evolution, emphasizing Vietnam’s active and responsible participation since joining in 1995. Despite being a later addition to the bloc, Vietnam has played a pivotal role in integrating Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia, simultaneously bolstering ASEAN’s global standing.
“Vietnam’s commitment to ASEAN has been unwavering,” Xuan stated.”We have consistently worked alongside our neighbors to address the complex challenges facing our region.”
Over the past three decades, vietnam has consistently aligned itself with other ASEAN nations in tackling a broad spectrum of issues – from traditional and non-traditional security concerns to the pressing challenges of climate change and disease. The nation’s dedication extends to fostering cultural exchange, promoting socio-economic development, improving educational opportunities, and protecting the surroundings.
During its 2020 ASEAN chairmanship,Vietnam spearheaded numerous initiatives designed to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,maintain regional peace and stability,and stimulate economic recovery. These efforts also focused on advancing gender equality and accelerating digital transformation across the region.
A Resilient ASEAN for a Changing World
Xuan framed the anniversary as a crucial opportunity for ASEAN members to reflect on their collective journey, acknowledge their achievements, and leverage their strengths. She envisions a resilient ASEAN capable of contributing meaningfully to both national development and global stability.
>”These past values and accomplishments provide confidence that, with solidarity and cooperation, ASEAN will continue to expand its influence and contribute to peace and enduring development in the region and the world.”
The Chairwoman also expressed gratitude to the ASEAN Consuls General in Ho Chi minh City for their collaborative efforts in fostering people-to-people diplomacy, strengthening the ASEAN Community, and empowering both Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam to assume a more proactive and responsible role within the region.
Malaysian Consul general in HCM City,firdauz Othman,echoed this sentiment,describing ASEAN’s 58-year history as a “testament to the power of diplomacy,mutual respect,and the shared aspiration for a peaceful and prosperous Southeast Asia.” he highlighted ASEAN’s evolution from a primarily economic organization to a vibrant community encompassing diverse social and cultural initiatives.Othman further praised Vietnam’s leadership over the past three decades, noting its success in bridging development gaps, building consensus, and driving progress towards a more cohesive and sustainable ASEAN. As he put it,Vietnam has become a model of outstanding leadership
within the organization.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening ASEAN’s collective voice on the international stage and fostering a future of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development for the region and beyond.
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