Brunei praises Vietnam’s NA for making AIPA-41 possible hinh anh 1The 41st AIPA General Assembly's first plenary session is virtually held on September 8 morning. (Photo: VNA)

Jakarta (VNA) – Speaker of the Legislative Council of Brunei Pehin Abdul Rahman Taib has appreciated the Vietnamese National Assembly’s dedication and steadfast commitment in making it possible to convene the 41st ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly’s General Assembly (AIPA-41) this year.

The virtual meeting is the first of its kind to be held in the history of the AIPA General Assembly due to COVID-19, he told the event’s first plenary session on September 8 morning.

The theme of the 41st AIPA General Assembly this year, “Parliamentary Diplomacy for Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN”, is relevant in the current context as the region faces unprecedented challenges in adapting to the new norm, he said. “The theme further emphasises the role of national parliaments of ASEAN as the voice of the people and the need to stand in solidarity and to respond swiftly to pressing issues, in accordance with the international laws.”

“The global impact of the pandemic on health, education and economy which fundamentally changed the way we lead our daily lives, saying despite these challenges, it is essential to maintain a forward-looking approach and carefully adapt to ensure the continuity of AIPA’s work,” he underscored.

He expressed his belief that by holding the true ASEAN spirit of “Unity in Diversity”, AIPA will be able to assist ASEAN to overcome the challenges ahead and respond adeptly to the impending future.

The top legislator of Brunei moved on to urge AIPA Member Parliaments to continue fostering cooperation among relevant stakeholders by encouraging timely exchanges of lessons learned in relation to mitigating the effects of COVID-19.

“It is important for parliamentarians to acknowledge post-pandemic challenges, which are imminent, and devising pre-emptive measures to safeguard the interests of our people, especially the most vulnerable members of our nations.”

He affirmed that the Legislative Council of Brunei will continue to support the endeavours and efforts by other AIPA Member Parliaments to address global and regional challenges through partnerships and diplomacy towards achieving common goals for the benefit of the people in the region.

He expected AIPA-41 discussions will further enhance its good cause for parliamentary diplomacy as ASEAN advances towards the goal for a cohesive, inclusive and resilient Community./.
VNA