His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam lauded the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’s (ASEAN) transformation over the years into a regional platform for cooperation between the governments and people.
In a message to commemorate the 57th year of the establishment of ASEAN, the monarch noted that ASEAN has demonstrated remarkable resilience, adapting to numerous challenges while steadfastly committing to regional progress for the past five decades.
His Majesty further said that ASEAN Member States have worked closely together and with external partners to foster development across the region.
“Today we celebrate the 57th year of the establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), in the spirit of friendship that has united us throughout the years,” said the sultan.
The monarch added that ASEAN Day is an occasion for us to reflect on the collective achievements of this Association in advancing regional peace, progress and prosperity.
“This year also marks a significant milestone for Brunei Darussalam as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary as a Member of ASEAN,” said His Majesty.
“The Association has also further strengthened Brunei Darussalam’s bonds of friendship with the other Members, supported the nation’s economic development as well and provided vast opportunities for the livelihoods of our people,” added the sultan.
The monarch further said that Brunei Darussalam continues to support ASEAN community building through the ASEAN Junior Fellowship Programme, Brunei – U.S. English Language Enrichment Project, Third Country Consular Assistance and the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change hosting.
“Looking ahead, we recall the aspirations of ASEAN’s founding fathers to establish a firm foundation to build trust, expand cooperation and bring benefits to all its people,” said His Majesty.
This continues to be relevant as we develop the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and Brunei Darussalam stands ready to work closely with other Member States to ensure we can build a resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centred ASEAN together.
His Majesty added: “We fully support the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and their work as Chairman this year under the theme “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience” which underlines the importance of our collective effort to address shared challenges while effectively upholding ASEAN Centrality.”
The sultan extended best wishes for a happy ASEAN Day and a prosperous and brighter future for the people and region.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
