Opening of the ASEAN Exhibition in Hanoi

On the morning of September 8th, in Hanoi, the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations (HAUFO), in collaboration with the embassies of ASEAN countries, organized the photo exhibition "ASEAN - 48 Years of Peace and Development and 20 Years of Vietnam's Accession to ASEAN".

With 100 photographs, the exhibition showcases the outstanding achievements of each ASEAN member state since joining the Association; and the 48-year journey of ASEAN's development since its inception. In particular, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Vietnam's accession to ASEAN, the host country's booth is a highlight of the exhibition, featuring over 30 photographs documenting the activities of Party and State leaders at ASEAN meetings, and the country's socio-economic development activities.

In his opening remarks at the exhibition, the Head of the Propaganda Department of the Hanoi City Party Committee, Ho Quang Loi, on behalf of the city's leaders, expressed his high appreciation for this meaningful event. He emphasized: “In the face of many global changes, the spirit of solidarity among ASEAN countries is our asset and pride. Peace, friendship, and cooperation are the spirit of ASEAN. This will determine our future. At the end of this year, we will witness the birth of the ASEAN Community. This represents a new stage of development and a new stature for ASEAN in the regional and global structure. The people of Hanoi, as well as the people of Vietnam, will always strive together with the people of ASEAN countries for the goal of peace, development, and prosperity. ASEAN member countries will join hands to move towards the future.”

Speaking at the exhibition, Malaysian Ambassador to Vietnam Azmil Zabidi, representing the ASEAN diplomatic corps, said: “This is a meaningful activity for us to commemorate the 48th anniversary of ASEAN’s founding. Throughout its development, ASEAN has grown stronger and made significant contributions to all member states. ASEAN has guided Southeast Asian nations towards a stable, peaceful, and prosperous region. ASEAN has successfully strengthened and maintained cooperation among member states, as well as dialogue partners and the international community in general.”

The Ambassador emphasized that ASEAN is continuing to implement the ASEAN Charter and actively preparing for the establishment of the ASEAN Community by the end of this year. We also clearly see the importance of fulfilling the commitment to a “connected ASEAN,” which will help accelerate economic cooperation, enhance trade in goods, services, and people, bringing immense benefits and stronger development to ASEAN. In other words, with its successes and strategic goals, ASEAN has proven to be a successful regional mechanism in the world. We believe that ASEAN will continue to strengthen development, stability, and peace in Southeast Asia. For that reason, we need to make even greater efforts to achieve the goals and commitments we have set.

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Vietnam's accession to ASEAN, the Ambassador highly appreciated Vietnam's responsible and constructive role. The Ambassador affirmed that Vietnam has actively contributed to promoting solidarity and stability within ASEAN. Vietnam's achievements in ASEAN have also laid a solid foundation for its future and dynamic integration with the international community.

According to Hanoi Moi