HANOI, VIETNAM, July 20 – ASEAN Foreign Ministers play a vital role in the association’s operation to overcome issues related with political cooperation; security and internal relationship.

This was stated by His Excellency Nguyen Tan Dung, the Prime Minister of Vietnam in his opening keynote address at the official opening of 43rd ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM) held at National Convention Centre.

He further outlined five main focus of ASEAN which were to realise the ASEAN Community vision which has become ASEAN’s main agenda today and for many years to come; to sustain peace and stability of the Asia Region and Asia Pacific that has become the main aim of ASEAN member countries including nations in the Asia Pacific; ASEAN must continue the effectiveness and quality for cooperation with its partners through ASEAN + 1 based on concrete strategies and action plan; ASEAN must become a responsible body towards the international community in handling global challenges such as financial and economic crisis, climate change, national disasters, pandemics and decrease in natural resources; and lastly to ensure ASEAN’s success in the new era by moving towards strengthening unity and solidarity, valuing traditional values, and respecting organisation’s principles.

Representing Brunei Darussalam at the official opening of 43rd AMM was His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Prior to opening ceremony, His Royal Highness with other ASEAN ministers attended a courtesy call to the Prime Minister of Vietnam, His Excellency Nguyen Tan Dung.

Soon after the opening ceremony, the ASEAN ministers had a closer look at an exhibition entitled ‘Vietnam-ASEAN: 15 Years Record’.