HCM City (VNA) – The Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organisations (HUFO) hosted a ceremony on August 18 to celebrate the 57th founding anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and 29 years since Vietnam joined the bloc.
In her speech, President of the Vietnam-ASEAN Friendship Association Asso. Prof. Dr Phan Thi Hong Xuan said the ASEAN’s 57th founding anniversary was an occasion to remember and honour the efforts of generations of leaders and citizens from member countries who have dedicated themselves to the region's development. The values and goals of ASEAN have been, and will continue to be, the guiding light to build a united, prosperous and peaceful ASEAN Community.
Reflecting on Vietnam's 29-year membership, Xuan underlined the country's crucial role in uniting Southeast Asian nations into a cohesive bloc. Vietnam's responsible engagement has significantly raised ASEAN's position on the global political stage, she noted.
Vietnam has actively contributed to ASEAN's development through global and regional cooperation, addressing common challenges such as traditional and non-traditional security issues, climate change, epidemic prevention, and cultural, economic, social, educational, and environmental matters, Xuan said.
She also expressed thanks to diplomatic missions, businesses from ASEAN countries in Ho Chi Minh City, and the people of ASEAN for their invaluable contributions to the development of the ASEAN Community and Vietnam, particularly Ho Chi Minh City.
Phonesy Bounmixay, Consul General of Laos in Ho Chi Minh City, affirmed that the development and success of ASEAN are the results of continuous unity and cooperation among all member countries.
He also took this opportunity to congratulate HUFO on its 35th founding anniversary and commend its efforts to foster a peaceful and prosperous ASEAN.
The ceremony also featured a painting contest aimed at expressing love for nature and raising awareness about the importance of environmental protection, cultural, and ecological diversity within the ASEAN region.
Participants were treated to traditional music performances and diverse cuisines of ASEAN member states./.
