Vietnam's positive contributions to ASEAN

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“Vietnam has played an active role in ASEAN’s expansion from 6 members to 10 and the establishment of the ASEAN Community in 2015. We have taken the lead in fulfilling tasks towards the establishment of the ASEAN Community. The country has coordinated and deepened relations between ASEAN and partner countries," Minh said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh.

So far, the country is one of the leading countries in realising ASEAN Community goals, with 95% of them underway.

In the role of coordinator of cooperation mechanisms of external partners such as China and India, Vietnam has enhanced connections between ASEAN and these partners.

Additionally, Vietnam helped increase the membership of the East Asia Summit by adding Russia and the US when Vietnam acted as chair of the association in 2010, said Minh, adding that Vietnam also proposed the expansion of the ASEAN Defence Ministerial Meeting Plus.

Vietnam, through two periods chairing the association, has also contributed initiatives, including the building of the Code of Conduct in the East Sea for maintaining peace and stability in the region, he said

In the future, Vietnam will continue working hard to build solidarity among ASEAN countries, while fulfilling ASEAN Community goals, including strengthening the understanding of people and enterprises on benefits brought about by the community.

ASEAN has built the Vision to 2025 and will continue to establish a Community of politics and economics to share social responsibility. 

Vietnam will take the lead in enhancing ASEAN unity for equal and sustainable development, Minh stated.