A seminar entitled, “Vietnam-ASEAN: past, present, future” opened in Hanoi on July 27.

The event aimed to mark ASEAN Day and the 15th anniversary of Vietnam’s accession to the organisation. It focused on the motives for joining the organisation and Vietnam’s renovation process with ASEAN co-operation, evaluation of the benefits of Vietnam’s accession to the organisation during the past 15 years, ASEAN’s prospects in the Asia-Pacific region and ASEAN’s policies in the future.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Gia Khiem opened the seminar, emphasising that joining ASEAN was a historic turning point in Vietnam’s diplomatic development.

Participants discussed Vietnam’s policies on building the ASEAN Community and measures to raise the country’s role and prestige in the organisation.

They agreed that joining the bloc was the Party and State’s clear-sighted and strategic decision to implement a foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification and multilateralisation for the country’s security and development, as well as elevating Vietnam’s status.

During the past 15 years, Vietnam has been an active member of ASEAN, making significant contributions to boosting peace, co-operation and development in the Southeast Asia.

Source: VNA/Vietnam+