Representatives from ASEAN member states at the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) meeting in Vientiane, Laos, on September 26. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam is committed to further advancing initiatives aimed at strengthening the connectivity within the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) and fostering deeper cohesion and understanding in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, a Vietnamese official stated.

Leading Việt Nam's delegation at the 32nd ASCC Council Meeting in Vientiane on September 26, Lưu Quang Tuấn, Director General of the Ministry of Labour - Invalids and Social Affairs’ Department of International Cooperation, noted these efforts are intended to build an image of a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable ASEAN on the global stage.

The official held that the bloc is strong when it is united, placing people at the centre of its efforts, and prioritising their welfare and happiness.

In his speech, Tuấn said ASEAN’s development, connectivity, and actions to address challenges like climate change and other risks will require continued endeavours from all member states.

He called for concentrated resources and expanded partnerships to achieve the strategic goals of improving the lives of ASEAN’s people, which remains the core of the ASCC building process.

At the meeting, participants reviewed updates on the community’s priority areas for 2024 and targets achieved under Laos’s chairmanship. Highlights of several key issues were discussed, and a draft report from the 32nd ASCC Council Meeting will be submitted for approval at the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits. — VNS