Speaking at the event, Thai Ambassador to Russia and Chair of the ASEANCommittee in Russia Thanatip Upatising lauded 2019 as a year significant to theRussia – ASEAN relationship, saying that the recent meeting between ASEAN andRussian foreign ministers in Bangkok has usher in a new period to realise ASEAN– Russia action plan as well as the memorandum of understanding between ASEANand the Eurasian Economic Union.
The diplomat thanked the Russian Foreign Ministry, Russia – ASEAN BusinessCouncil, academies research centres for their contributions to furtherdeepening the Russia – ASEAN strategic partnership as well as strengtheningtrust between both sides.
He said ASEAN will continue developing strategic partnership with Russia.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov said developing ties with ASEANis one of the priorities in Russia’s external policy. Over the past twodecades, the bloc has become a trustworthy partner in global issues as well aspeace and security guarantee in Asia – the Pacific.
Russia respects ASEAN’s principles, he said, adding that one of the leadingpriorities of Russia in its position as Chair of the Shanghai CooperationOrganisation for the 2019 – 2020 period is reinforcing links with associations,especially ASEAN, contributing to ensuring stability and security in Asia – thePacific and addressing sustainable development issues in the region.-VNA