New Zealand hails Vietnam’s leadership as ASEAN Chair in 2020
(VOVWORLD) - New Zealand speaks highly of Vietnam’s leadership as ASEAN Chair this year, Alison Mann, Senior Official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of New Zealand told Vietnam News Agency reporter in Jakarta.
 Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh chairs the 10th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (Photo: VNA) |
She said Vietnam's priority to promoting a "cohesive and proactive ASEAN" is relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic challenges. She added New Zealand - one of ASEAN's earliest dialogue partners - wishes to further work with the bloc to boost post-pandemic recovery and support peace, prosperity and long-term stability in the region.
According to Alison Mann, the challenge faced by both New Zealand and ASEAN is to overcome the coronavirus crisis, and build a region with better resilience and resistance to future shocks.
She said New Zealand's commitment to ASEAN is always based on trust, respect for the sovereignty and independence of ASEAN countries, and wishes to deepen two-way cooperation.