Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu presided over the ASEAN flag-raising ceremony, conducted by the Vietnam People's Army honor guard at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters on 8/8.
This ceremony, held annually by ASEAN member states on August 8th, carried special significance this year, marking the 58th anniversary of ASEAN's founding, the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community, and Vietnam's 30th year of membership, Deputy Minister Nguyen Minh Vu stated.
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The Vietnam People's Army honor guard performs the ASEAN flag-raising ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters on 8/8. Photo: Giang Huy |
The Vietnam People's Army honor guard performs the ASEAN flag-raising ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters on 8/8. Photo: Giang Huy
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Nguyen Minh Vu said that amid great power competition and complex regional and global developments, stability and prosperity in Southeast Asia can only be maintained through ASEAN's central role.
"When we act together, we create something far greater and more enduring. Together, we can tackle complex issues with confidence and purpose," the Deputy Foreign Minister said.
He affirmed that unity is ASEAN's greatest strength, giving the bloc a common voice on global issues. This unity also allows ASEAN to maintain its central role in the region and determine its own destiny.
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Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu speaks at the ASEAN flag-raising ceremony on 8/8. Photo: Giang Huy |
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu speaks at the ASEAN flag-raising ceremony on 8/8. Photo: Giang Huy
According to Deputy Minister Nguyen Minh Vu, ASEAN is looking forward to Timor-Leste becoming its 11th member in October. This event marks a historic expansion for ASEAN and further strengthens the bloc's united voice.
The ASEAN flag-raising ceremony is a formal and solemn activity for member states, demonstrating their spirit of unity, cooperation, and shared vision for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous ASEAN Community.
The ASEAN flag features a blue background symbolizing peace and stability, and red representing dynamism. The 10 stalks of yellow rice in the center represent the region's agricultural heritage and the 10 member countries.
Ngoc Anh