Philippines to Chair ASEAN in 2017
Despite the controversies that President Rodrigo Duterte had dealt with during the ASEAN Summit 2016, one main happening on that event that caught the attentions of many is the acceptance of the Chairmanship of the ASEAN 2017 by the Philippines.
On Thursday, September 9, The Philippines, accepted the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for 2017. President Rodrigo Duterte formalized this in handing over ceremonies at the National Convention Center in Vientiane, Laos, on Thursday. The chairmanship will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the regional organization.
This event was one of the few instances that President Duterte prepared a speech.
“We will pursue initiative and enhance cooperation with global partners to ensure that the ASEAN citizens live in peace, stability, security, and growth all while remaining ASEAN’s unity and solidarity we will maintain for all times,” Duterte said.
Duterte also gave his gratitude to Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith for successfully chairing ASEAN 2016.
“I have benefited immensely from our discussions and exchanges, providing me with insights on how best to build upon Lao PDR’s efforts in community building,” Duterte said.
The theme for the ASEAN Summit 2017 is akin to Duterte’s campaign motto, “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.” On a speech Duterte said, “The Philippines is ready and willing to see and guide the association, but crucial to the realization of our goals are cooperation and support from all the ASEAN member states and our dialogue partners.”
