(VOVworld) – The 28th and 29th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summits opened in Vientiane, Laos on Tuesday with the participation of leaders from the 10 ASEAN countries.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and other ASEAN leaders (Photo: VNA)

This was the first chance for ASEAN leaders and partners to meet after the ASEAN community was formed last December. During his speech at the event, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc spoke highly of the achievements of the ASEAN Community in its first year as well as Laos’ important role as ASEAN president in 2016. Mr. Phuc said in order to effectively build the ASEAN Community and Vision 2025, it was essential to raise the bloc’s capability and self-reliance and bring into full play of ASEAN’s central role. He asked for a clear definition of priorities while implementing ASEAN’s Vision 2025 and plans for the political and security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars. To mark the upcoming 50^th founding anniversary of ASEAN, Mr. Phuc stressed the need to enhance communication and encourage the participation of the people, enterprises and society to create a consensus and support for ASEAN. Vietnam will work with member countries to implement ASEAN’s practical activities to raise the bloc’s position after 50 years of operation.