At the event (Photo: VNA)She made the remarks whileaddressing the first plenary session of the AIPA-42, the second virtual assembly in the 44-year history of the organisation, thatopened on August 23 morning.
“The 42nd AIPA GeneralAssembly takes place at a special time when ASEAN is facing multiple challenges,stemming from the new COVID-19 outbreaks and the virus’ new variants, theincreasingly intensive strategic rivalry between major powers, as well as thecomplicated developments in the East Sea and in Myanmar,” Van noted.
Globalisation, connectivity,and international integration are facing numerous difficulties, and adjustmentis required to adapt to the new circumstances. Meanwhile, the whirlwind developmentof science and technology, as well as the digital transformation process acrossthe globe present both opportunities and challenges to countries, accordingto the Secretary General.
She added in the midst ofthis situation, the awareness of ASEAN’s values has been further strengthened, and countriesin the region have shown their support, commitment, and respect for the role of the grouping.
“It is encouraging to seethat the blueprints to build the ASEAN Community until 2025 have been rolledout across all of the Community’s pillars,” she went on.
Van echoed the heads ofdelegations’ assessment that digital transformation is a crucial approach which will enable member states to recover faster from the pandemic. Giventhis, she expressed her appreciation of the significance of the AIPA-42 theme,which showcases the AIPA and member parliaments’ consensus to support ASEAN priorities.
The Secretary General pledgedthat AIPA will continue joining hands with ASEAN, contributing practically to realisingthe ASEAN Community Vision 2025, chartering orientations for cooperation in thepost-2025 period, and effectively responding to regional and internationalcomplexities and unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic./.
VNA
