Vietnam participates in ASEAN Summits actively, proactively: Deputy FM

Vietnam has made it a point to participate in the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits with an active, proactive and responsible spirit, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Quoc Dung told the press after the series of events ended.

PM Pham Minh Chinh attends the closing ceremony of the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits. (Photo: VNA)
PM Pham Minh Chinh attends the closing ceremony of the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam engaged in all discussions of the meetings which took place over a course of three days from October 26-28, said Dung, who is also head SOM ASEAN Vietnam. He added that many initiatives raised by Vietnam won support from other countries.

According to the official, since the beginning of 2021, Vietnam has made responsible contributions to the compilation of about 100 documents submitted to regional leaders for approval.

As for the COVID-19 combat, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s remarks on the new strategy with an all-people approach were welcomed by other participating countries. Vietnam’s proposals regarding sustainable recovery has also drawn attention of the delegates.

Vietnam’s candid, sincere and transparent approach to regional and international matters, including the East Sea/South China Sea issue and the enhancement of regional connectivity, has been fully reflected in documents of the meetings, Dung said.

The official emphasised that Vietnam’s contributions have helped to affirm the country’s role and prestige.

Amid a range of difficulties, both in and outside the region, the organisation of the series of meetings with the participation of leaders from all ASEAN member countries has affirmed the ten-member grouping’s spirit and values, the Deputy Minister said.

Outcomes of the events mirror what the bloc and its partners are interested in and wish to take part in actively, proactively and responsibly, Dung noted.

He highlighted the solidarity and consensus in ASEAN Community building as an outstanding result of the meetings. In addition, partners have continued to attach great importance to the grouping and committed to working together with it to effectively contain the pandemic and cope with emerging challenges.

The leaders also had in-depth discussions on issues affecting regional peace, stability and development, including those regarding the East Sea and Myanmar and how to narrow development gaps, Dung said.