Flag-raising ceremony marks ASEAN's 59th founding anniversary

The event was attended by leaders of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives of ministries and agencies, and representatives of the diplomatic corps, and international organizations.

The ASEAN flag was solemnly raised, symbolizing the bloc's solidarity, unity and centrality amid an increasingly uncertain global landscape, while reaffirming Viet Nam's strong commitment to building a united, resilient, innovative and people-centered ASEAN Community.

Addressing the ceremony, Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung emphasized that the hoisting of the ASEAN Flag-a symbol of the bloc's shared identity, solidarity, and common aspirations. 

This year's ceremony is also particularly meaningful as it coincides with Viet Nam's commemoration of the August Revolution, reaffirming the timeless values of independence, self-reliance, solidarity, and cooperation that guide our common journey.

Fifty-nine years ago, the nations of Southeast Asia made a historic choice: to replace division with dialogue, and confrontation with cooperation. Since then, ASEAN has evolved into a community of peace, progress, and shared prosperity. Built on decades of stability, a 3.9 trillion-dollar economy, and a population of nearly 700 million, ASEAN is emerging as a dynamic and single market driven by integration, innovation, connectivity, and competitiveness.

Reflecting on bloc's past journey, Foreign Minister Le noted that resilience remains the cornerstone of ASEAN’s strength as it has enabled ASEAN to navigate geopolitical uncertainties, safeguard shared interests, and preserve strategic autonomy. 

As ASEAN commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, its core principles continue to underpin ASEAN’s unity, centrality, and our collective commitment to regional peace, stability, and cooperation, he said.

Strengthening resilience also requires enhancing economic security, social foundations, and adaptability, with the steadfast support, trust, and cooperation of the bloc's partners and friends.

Readiness defines a forward-looking ASEAN. By anticipating change, driving innovation, developing human capital, and harnessing emerging technologies responsibly, ASEAN can remain competitive, agile, and future-ready. By building trust, deepening cooperation and developing our own regional solutions, ASEAN can further enhance its role not only as a contributor to regional stability but also as a shaper of the regional order.

A few days ago, Viet Nam also celebrated the 31st anniversary of our membership in ASEAN. For Viet Nam, ASEAN is not only a strategic priority and a central pillar of the country's foreign policy. 

As Viet Nam enters a new era of national development, striving to realize the two centennial goals of becoming a modern industrialized nation by 2030 and a developed high-income country by 2045, Viet Nam's future is closely intertwined with ASEAN's collective success.

A stronger ASEAN creates greater opportunities for Viet Nam, while a stronger Viet Nam enables the country to contribute more meaningfully to ASEAN, noted Le. 

He affirmed that Viet Nam will continue to grow with ASEAN and contribute to our shared vision of a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN Community./.