Vietnam in ASEAN: Toward cooperation for mutual benefits

As the third largest population and the fourth-largest country in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), with a strategic geographic and economic position in Southeast Asia, Vietnam has an important role in the bloc.
November 10, 2018 | 10:42

As the third largest population and the fourth-largest country in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), with a strategic geographic and economic position in Southeast Asia, Vietnam has an important role to play in the bloc.

Vietnam in ASEAN: Toward cooperation for mutual benefits

Vietnam's official membership in ASEAN in July 28, 1995 marks a major turning point for the region, opening up a new era of peace and cooperation.

Thirty-three years of joining ASEAN, despite its the development gap with other members, Vietnam has always tried its best to accomplish its mission in the bloc. Vietnam has participated in all activities of the association and honoured its commitments to the bloc, including Vietnam's efforts to promote the admission of other Southeast Asian countries to form ASEAN 10; Vietnam's active role in defining the objectives, directions for development and formulating major decisions of ASEAN; the hosting of the 6th ASEAN Summit in Hanoi in December 1998; the successful completion of ASEAN Chairmanship from 2001 to 2001 and the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2010 with substantial results (such as the expansion of the East Asia Summit, which includes all major countries in the region, the establishment of an expanded Defense Ministerial, etc.).

In the context of global and regional unrest, directly or indirectly affecting security and stability in Southeast Asia, Vietnam has always affirmed the voice of solidarity, unity and enhancement to assume the responsibility of responding effectively to the threats to peace, security and stability of the region.

Participation in ASEAN has brought many benefits and opportunities for Vietnam to integrate step by step with the region and the world, enhance internal strengths and reforms, and promote the role and status of a responsible country in the international community. Vietnam has contributed to the achievement of ASEAN with the same ambition to light the common and endless efforts for the goals of the Community.

Former Secretary-General of ASEAN Ong Keng Yong commented: “Since joining the ASEAN, Vietnam has made great contributions to the building of ASEAN's prosperity and solidity as it is today. Vietnam has helped ASEAN establish common rules, actively participate in all conferences and make great contributions to the common decisions of the bloc.”

During the period of 23 years participating in ASEAN, Vietnam has contributed to the growth of ASEAN, confirming its image and reputation as an active, proactive and responsible member. The country has helped ASEAN establish common rules, actively participate in all conferences and make great contributions to the common decisions of ASEAN. In addition, Vietnam has also contributed positively to the development of the ASEAN Charter./.

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