Laos Gears Up to Host 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

Laos authorities have discussed preparations for the 57th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and related meetings, scheduled to take place in the Laos capital Vientiane from July 21 to 27.

Preparatory Meeting

A preparatory meeting was held on Wednesday, chaired by Laos Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Saleumxay Kommasith.

Progress Briefing

During the meeting, participants were briefed about the progress made by sub-committees in preparation for the major regional events. The preparatory work includes accommodation for ministers and delegations from more than 34 countries, delegate vehicles, transport, communication, and internet facilities.

Call to Action

Saleumxay urged relevant authorities to continue their efforts in preparing for the upcoming regional events, ensuring all arrangements are in place for the smooth conduct of the meeting.

ASEAN : Key Points

Full Name: Association of Southeast Asian Nations

Founded: August 8, 1967

Headquarters: Jakarta, Indonesia

Motto: “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”

Member Countries (10)

1. Brunei Darussalam
2. Cambodia
3. Indonesia
4. Laos
5. Malaysia
6. Myanmar
7. Philippines
8. Singapore
9. Thailand
10. Vietnam

Objectives

Promote Economic Growth: Foster economic development and trade among member states.

Cultural Development: Enhance cultural exchanges and mutual understanding.

Social Progress: Improve living standards and quality of life in the region.

Political Stability: Maintain peace, stability, and security.

Regional Cooperation: Strengthen collaboration in various fields including agriculture, education, and science.

Key Bodies

ASEAN Summit: Highest policy-making body comprising heads of state/government of member states.

ASEAN Secretariat: Based in Jakarta, Indonesia, it provides administrative support and implements ASEAN policies.

ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF): A platform for security dialogue in Asia.

Key Agreements and Initiatives

ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA): Aims to eliminate tariffs and facilitate trade.

ASEAN Economic Community (AEC): Seeks to create a single market and production base.

ASEAN Plus Three: Involves ASEAN along with China, Japan, and South Korea, enhancing cooperation with East Asia.

Major Summits and Meetings

ASEAN Summit: Held biannually, focusing on strategic issues and regional cooperation.

ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting: Annual meeting addressing diplomatic and security matters.

Partnerships

Dialogue Partners: Includes countries like China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and the European Union, fostering external relations and cooperation.

Challenges

Economic Disparities: Addressing development gaps among member states.

Political Differences: Managing diverse political systems and ideologies.

Security Issues: Tackling regional security threats like terrorism and territorial disputes.