For a united, resilient and developed ASEAN

Over the past 30 years as a member of ASEAN, Viet Nam has always regarded its relationship with the association as one of the foremost priorities in its foreign, security and economic policies. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s working trip once again reaffirms Viet Nam’s efforts, dedication and commitment to building a united, peaceful, resilient, inclusive and sustainable ASEAN.

The 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings take place in a global context marked by rapid, complex and unpredictable developments, posing challenges to ASEAN’s unity and future.

Yet, after nearly six decades of formation and growth, ASEAN remains steadfast — a shining example of multilateral cooperation. A series of tangible and positive outcomes has been achieved, most notably the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the official admission of Timor-Leste as the association’s 11th member.

Intra- and extra-regional economic linkages have been strengthened through an extensive network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with partners such as China, the Republic of Korea and India. ASEAN’s mechanisms continue to receive strong support, interest and active participation from partners, testifying to the international community’s confidence in and appreciation of ASEAN’s role and capacity.

Under the chairmanship of Malaysia in 2025, ASEAN has been actively promoting initiatives for building an inclusive and sustainable community, in line with the theme of ASEAN Year 2025. This theme reflects ASEAN’s message of its efforts to ensure equal development opportunities for all, leaving no one behind.

The 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia marks a historic milestone as ASEAN formally welcomes its newest member, Timor-Leste, bringing the total number of member states to 11. The association’s expansion not only reflects its enduring appeal but also reinforces inclusiveness and enhances resilience.

Over the course of 30 years, Viet Nam and ASEAN have shared many defining moments, most recently the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which opens a new chapter in ASEAN’s development over the next two decades. This demonstrates ASEAN’s proactive approach in a rapidly changing world and reaffirms the commitment and determination of member states to build a resilient, dynamic, innovative and people-centred ASEAN.

Throughout Viet Nam’s three decades of ASEAN membership, Viet Nam, with its growing stature and strength, has affirmed its indispensable role and influential voice within the association. For Viet Nam, ASEAN membership holds strategic significance in maintaining a peaceful and secure environment, expanding development space and elevating the country’s international standing. For ASEAN, Viet Nam’s active contributions are vital to ensuring the association’s unity, resilience and strategic autonomy.

At the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings, the Vietnamese delegation will continue to make proactive contributions to common efforts, particularly in maintaining peace and stability, diversifying relations and markets, and strengthening ASEAN connectivity. Viet Nam also welcomes Timor-Leste’s participation in ASEAN and pledges to assist the country’s active integration into the ASEAN Community.

The 30th anniversary of Viet Nam’s ASEAN membership is not only a historic milestone but also a reaffirmation of Viet Nam’s commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with other member states in turning ASEAN’s vision and aspirations into reality. As Viet Nam advances into a new era of national rise alongside ASEAN’s next phase, the country remains acutely aware of its mission and responsibility to realise ASEAN’s goals and to continue contributing to the shared success stories of the association and its members.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s attendance at the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Malaysia sends forth a clear message of a Viet Nam that upholds responsibility, proactiveness and creativity, contributing to the building of a stable, sustainable and inclusive ASEAN Community so that ASEAN truly serves as a “home” for the peoples of its member countries.