As ASEAN celebrates its 56th Anniversary this year, we are reminded of the rich history of the Association and the many achievements we have accomplished in the last five decades.
ASEAN has made significant progress to ensure the region remains peaceful, stable and secure, with steady economic growth and strong socio-cultural ties. Together with growing support from external partners for ASEAN’s Community-building efforts, our region has advanced in areas such as education, health and technology.
ASEAN has also reaffirmed its centrality and unity in shaping the evolving regional architecture as a platform for its Member States and partners to cooperate and have constructive dialogue and consultations through mechanisms such as the East Asia Summit and the ASEAN Regional Forum.
As we work towards realising the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, ensuring the well-being of our peoples continues to be at the centre of our efforts. It is therefore important that we build a community that is meaningful for our peoples, one in which they are prepared for the challenges ahead, are able to relate to, and most importantly, can benefit from the opportunities that the future holds.
It is also important that these aspirations guide our work in formulating the ASEAN Community Vision Post-2025, as we strive to become an Association that is more inclusive, adaptive, responsive and forward-looking.
In this regard, Brunei Darussalam commends Indonesia’s work as ASEAN Chairman in 2023 under the theme “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth”.
We will continue to work closely and with consensus, with all ASEAN Member States as well as with Dialogue, Sectoral and Development Partners to achieve our shared goals for peace, stability and prosperity and towards an ASEAN Community that is rules-based, people-oriented, and people-centred.
My very best wishes to all the people of ASEAN, and to a future where our people and region will continue to prosper.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
