H.E. Chan Aye
Ambassador, Republic of the Union of Myanmar
Chair of the ASEAN Committee in Kuwait (March – August 2024)
This year, we, the member states of ASEAN (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam.) joyfully celebrate on 8th August the founding of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Since its inception in 1967, the historic document known as ‘The ASEAN Declaration’ reflects our shared history and collective vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Southeast Asia.
Despite the challenges encountered along ASEAN’s journey, the organization has emerged as one of the most successful inter-governmental bodies in the region and beyond. Today, ASEAN’s enduring relevance is underscored by its fundamental principles upheld at both regional and international levels. The Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) has been ratified by 54 countries, and ASEAN actively engages with eleven dialogue partners, with four elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership status in recent years.
For all of us, ASEAN represents a cornerstone of our diplomacy, demonstrating the strength found in diversity. I acknowledge the invaluable positive contributions of each ASEAN member state in shaping our collective journey towards regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Together, we have navigated common challenges, forged partnerships, and promoted mutual understanding among us. ASEAN’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation continues to inspire resilience amidst global uncertainties, reinforcing our collective resolve to build a resilient and sustainable future.
In 2024, under the theme ‘ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience’, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s Chairmanship underscores the critical need for collective action to address challenges while promoting regional integration and stability. Lao PDR’s priorities include economic integration, digital transformation, cultural promotion, climate change resilience, empowerment of women and children, and health sector resilience.
Upholding ASEAN’s centrality, unity, and solidarity based on the ASEAN Charter’s principles and norms is essential for achieving these goals.
On this auspicious ASEAN Day, we not only celebrate achievements and unity within our region but also deepen partnerships that transcend borders. Our relations with the State of Kuwait continue to thrive, reflecting mutual respect and a shared vision for enhancing bilateral cooperation. The recent signing of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation by the State of Kuwait further solidifies our commitment to fostering political and economic cooperation.
The ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 20 October, 2023, underscored our commitment to peace, prosperity, and understanding between these two regional blocs. Economic ties, especially in energy resources, are crucial, with GCC countries exporting oil and gas to meet ASEAN’s energy needs, while ASEAN exports goods and services to the GCC. Discussions on a free trade agreement (FTA) aim to deepen economic ties, alongside cooperation in infrastructure, technology, innovation, and people-to-people exchanges, enhancing mutual benefits and regional development.
Looking ahead, the GCC-ASEAN Economic and Investment Conference in Riyadh on 28 May, 2024, pledged to strengthen economic cooperation in sectors such as food security, energy, water security, green technologies, and tourism infrastructure. The ASEAN-GCC trade valued at USD 137 billion highlights substantial economic potential, despite recent challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic.
As we commemorate the 57th ASEAN Day, let us renew our commitment to mutual respect, inclusivity, and solidarity. Let us leverage our cultural and economic diversity to foster innovation, enhance regional integration, and improve the quality of life for all ASEAN citizens. On behalf of the ASEAN Committee in Kuwait, I extend warm wishes to all ASEAN citizens and reaffirm our dedication to advancing ASEAN’s shared goals of peace, progress, and prosperity.
Happy 57th ASEAN Day!
