Hosted by the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ceremony was presided over by Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane. It gathered high-level Lao officials, ministers from the three ASEAN Community pillars, ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from ASEAN member states, the Ambassador of Timor-Leste, and officials from Lao ministries and related agencies.
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The ASEAN flag is solemnly hoisted at a ceremony held in Vientiane, Laos on July 28. |
In his remarks, Minister Thongsavanh underscored ASEAN’s important role and achievements over the nearly six decades, particularly in fostering intra-bloc cooperation, promoting partnerships beyond the region, and gradually forming a strong ASEAN Community, thereby contributing to peace and stability in the region and the world.
He noted that this year, the bloc will welcome Timor-Leste as the newest member.
The minister also reviewed Laos’s active participation in ASEAN since joining in 1997, including its fulfilment of commitments to benefit the Lao people. He reaffirmed the country’s dedication to advancing a strong ASEAN Community through the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, the strategic plans of the three ASEAN Community pillars, and the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan.
Reflecting on Laos’ 2024 ASEAN Chairmanship, in the third time in the role, Thongsavanh highlighted its contributions under the theme “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” which helped elevate the country’s profile both regionally and globally.
He expressed support for Malaysia’s chairmanship in 2025 under the theme “Inclusion and Sustainability.”
The minister also thanked domestic stakeholders, other ASEAN members, and international partners for their support during his country’s chairmanship year.
The speech was followed by the hoisting of the ASEAN and Lao flags, and a commemorative photo session with attending diplomats.
Source: VNA