(VOVworld) - The Philippines assumed the 2017 Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at a ceremony on Sunday.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte assumed the 2017 Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at a ceremony on Sunday. (Photo: EPA/VNA)

President Rodrigo Duterte said at the event that ASEAN will achieve its goals via policies, cooperation, coordination, and consensus. President Duterte also said his presidency will prioritize regional peace and stability, and maritime cooperation and security in the context of growing concerns over territorial disputes in the East Sea.

In 2017, Philippines will host approxinmately 100 ASEAN meetings, including two summits in April and November.