The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) continues to be a regional model and cooperation amid global uncertainties, conflicts, and fragility, said Vietnamese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet.

Hanoi.- The diplomat made the statement at the regional bloc’s flag-raising ceremony, held this Thursday at the headquarters to commemorate the 57th anniversary of the founding.

Hung Viet stated that over nearly six decades, ASEAN’s role and position have grown steadily, and cited among its main achievements the consolidation of a peaceful and stable political environment, closer regional economic connectivity, and sustainable, inclusive, and adaptive growth.

The functionary also predicted that with solidarity as a point of support, centrality as a basis, direction as a strategic vision, and specific programs as tools, the Association will be able to adapt harmoniously to possible volatilities and grow even more in the next decade.

The Minister also noted Vietnam’s efforts and contributions to maintaining a united and strong ASEAN and assured that it will continue to work with other member nations to enhance such achievements.

Hung Viet announced that Hanoi will host the second edition of the ASEAN Future Forum in 2025, and will seek to strengthen ties between the bloc and its partners, particularly in its capacity as coordinator of relations with New Zealand and the United Kingdom for 2024-2027.

The bloc founded on August 8th, 1967, is preparing to enter a new stage of development after completing the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and is on track to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by the year 2050. (PL)