MANILA, Philippines — As the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) marks its 53rd year, President Duterte said he is confident the regional block would be more united in fighting and eventually overcoming the scourge of COVID-19. The Philippines was one of the founders of ASEAN, together with Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. But if pursued with friends, the burden is shared and transformed into an opportunity to create a more resilient Southeast Asian region,” Duterte said. More than five decades since its creation, Duterte noted that ASEAN has reached an “unparalleled success” as a force for peace and prosperity in the region. Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh emphasized that a strong and united ASEAN is indispensable for peace and prosperity within the region.

Source: Philippine Star August 08, 2020 15:56 UTC