The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established in 1967 as a regional intergovernmental organization, aiming to promote cooperation and enhance economic, social, and cultural development among its member states. Since then, ASEAN has become an influential platform for regional diplomacy and cooperation, and has played a key role in advancing trade, investment, and security in the region. One of the key initiatives under the ASEAN framework is the establishment of the Vietnam ASEAN Special Envoy (VASEAN), which aims to promote greater collaboration and harmonization among the ASEAN countries in a variety of fields. In this article, we will explore the goals and objectives of VASEAN, and how it is contributing to the development and integration of ASEAN countries.
Vietnam’s VASEAN Association for Economic Co-operation and Development aims to create business opportunities for firms and promote products in ASEAN countries through the development of transaction centres. The Vice Chairman, Bùi Tất Thắng, stated that the promotion of cultural exchange would also contribute to the development of economic co-operation, with annual economic reports for ASEAN trade and investment. The VASEAN Association has grown from a foundation of cooperation, exchange, and mutual sharing of embassies in the region.
In 2022, a working delegation of the association collaborated with embassies to enhance understanding and exchange, providing member businesses with an opportunity to learn about policies and the investment environment of other countries. In 2023, the association looks to strengthen trade promotion, investment, co-operation, and cultural exchange with countries outside of the region to celebrate its 15th anniversary of development and integration.
Bùi Tất Thắng explains that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to severe consequences with many new challenges arising in the world’s socio-political situation. Therefore, VASEAN seeks to strengthen its collaborations towards success through a stable and understanding foundation with the motto, “Happiness is sharing.”
2023 marks the 28th year since Vietnam entered ASEAN, and the country has continued to be an active, proactive, and responsible member. Striving towards a strong, peaceful, and prosperous development, Vietnam’s deep participation in ASEAN’s economic integration is helpful to attract more investments and technical capital from outside. At the same time, it expands the market for goods and services.
The strategic partnership between Vietnam and South Korea and India has also achieved significant accomplishments, contributing to the quick and sustainable development of Vietnam’s economy. The VASEAN Association has affirmed its position and historical mission in the development of economic cooperation and cultural exchange of ASEAN countries, and countries in the Asia-Pacific region, in general.
