Endah Tjahjani Dwirini, Head of Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation of the Indonesian House of Representatives (Photo: VOV)

Endah Tjahjani Dwirini, Head of Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation of the Indonesian House of Representatives, said the theme "Parliamentary Diplomacy for Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN Community” that Vietnam chose for this year’s AIPA General Assembly is consistent with the theme of the 36^th ASEAN Summit, which focuses on COVID-19 cohesion and response and post-pandemic cooperation and recovery.

She said that although this is the first time the AIPA General Assembly has been held online, Vietnam organized it very well.  "Vietnam has previously hosted a number of AIPA meetings. I must say that Vietnam has prepared very well. Under the leadership of Vietnam, I believe the 41st AIPA will be successful. We appreciate Vietnam’s efforts in overcoming the pandemic to prepare for this event, which has set a good example for other countries," Endah Tjahjani Dwirini said. 

Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Sengphet Houngboungnuan praised the Vietnamese National Assembly’s contribution to AIPA. He said, "This is the third time the Vietnamese National Assembly has served as AIPA Chair. The successful organization of the 41st AIPA General Assembly will be an important highlight of Vietnam’s foreign affairs, and a highlight of Vietnam’s diplomatic achievements. I hope that AIPA 41 will improve mutual understanding and strengthen cooperation between the ASEAN Parliament and its observers and other Parliamentary organizations, and promote the role of AIPA in bringing prosperity and sustainable development to the region."

Singaporean Ambassador to Vietnam Catherine Wong Siow Ping (Photo: baoquocte.vn)

Singaporean Ambassador to Vietnam Catherine Wong Siow Ping said that, in this uncertain period, Vietnam's decisive leadership as ASEAN 2020 Chair and AIPA 41 Chair is truly meaningful. She said the COVID-19 pandemic is a strong reminder of the importance of solidarity and mutual trust in overcoming challenges.