EU supports ASEAN’s central role in Asia-Pacific
The European Union (EU) supports the central role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in cooperative relations in Asia-Pacific.
EU supports central role of ASEAN in cooperative relations in Asia-Pacific (Illustrative image. Source: internet)Xavier Nuttin, an advisor of Asian policies of the European Parliament made the remark in a recent exchange with reporters from Vietnam News Agency in Brussels, Belgium, on the occasion of the 50th founding anniversary of ASEAN.
He said ASEAN plays a significant role in the global arena, both politically and economically.
The 10-member bloc is the sixth largest economy in the world and is expected to become the fourth biggest by 2050, he said.
The EU is ASEAN’s second biggest trade partner and largest investor, accounting for 20 percent of total foreign investment in the region, he said, noting that trade plays an important role in cooperation programmes the EU is sponsoring for ASEAN with nearly 50 percent of investment poured into the economic sector.
The two sides aim to sign a free trade agreement, an initiative they launched in the 2000s. The EU has opened negotiations for trade deals with many ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam.
Vietnam and the EU concluded negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement in 2015, with the deal awaiting ratification.
Nuttin evaluated Vietnam as an important member in ASEAN with a special geographical location, large population and rapidly developing economy.
Relations between Vietnam and the EU began in 1996 with the signing of a cooperation agreement allowing the establishment of the EU delegation in Vietnam.
The 2016 partnership agreement opened up bilateral cooperation in various fields from energy to culture. The EU is the biggest provider of non-refundable aid packages for Vietnam with 400 million EUR in 2014-2020, he said.
He affirmed that EU will continue supporting Vietnam to build on its achievements and improve the lives of Vietnamese people.
Meanwhile, Gerhard Will, Southeast Asia expert at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, and Thomas Engelbert from Asia-Africa Institute of Hamburg University, recognised ASEAN’s accomplishments in politics, economy and security.
Will said Vietnam plays a crucial role in the building of ASEAN, while Engelbert said Vietnam has actively engaged in the bloc’s activities.-VNA
You should also see
PM urges stronger cooperation between Vietnamese, Chinese Ministries of Justice
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has requested the Ministries of Justice of Vietnam and China to foster cooperation and mutual support, making them to be on a par with the height of the bilateral relations.
See more
ASEAN
Forum boosts economic ties among ASEAN, emerging economies, Russia
An economic cooperation forum on fostering ties between ASEAN and emerging economies, and Russia convened in Hanoi on April 12.
Culture - Sports
ASEAN Graphic Arts Competition and Exhibition 2024 to promote friendship
The Department of Fine Arts, Photography and Exhibition under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will collaborate with relevant agencies to organise the ASEAN Graphic Arts Competition and Exhibition 2024.
ASEAN
Malaysia issues heatwave alert for 14 areas
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued hot weather warnings for 14 areas across the country, particularly in the states of Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Sarawak and Sabah.
World
China, Thailand forge alliance for moon exploration
China and Thailand have inked preliminary agreements to collaborate on the peaceful exploration and use of space, as well as on the development of international lunar research stations.
World
MICHELIN Guide Thailand expands to Chon Buri
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced an exciting expansion for the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025, which will now include Chon Buri province.
