Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and other ASEAN foreign ministers witnessed the signing ceremony, according to a statement published on the official website of the ASEAN Viet Nam 2020.
In his remarks, Minh stated that expansion of the treaty mirrored ASEAN’s position and role in enhancing cooperation and in promoting peace and security in the region and the world.
The TAC was signed in Bali, Indonesia, in February 1976, with 40 signatories so far.
Since its signing and coming into force, the treaty has turned out to be a crucial instrument governing relations between states to maintain regional peace and stability as well as one of the key codes of conduct in ASEAN’s central regional architecture.
In recent years, interest among non-ASEAN member states in the treaty has grown, he stated, adding that the accession by Colombia, Cuba, and South Africa to the TAC will further contribute to the reinforcement of importance and relevance of the treaty’s purposes and principles that encompass the peaceful settlement of disputes and resolutions of differences.
Minh urged the three nations to commit themselves to the purposes and strive further to bolster cooperation with ASEAN while contributing to promoting peace and security in the region and beyond.
Optimistic of further commitments, Minh remarked that substantial and concrete actions should be put forth and taken to work towards a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous region and the world.
Meanwhile, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla recognized the work of Vietnam and ASEAN in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and extended his condolences to Cambodia, the Philippines, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam over the heavy loss of life and property from the recent weather calamities.
It demonstrates the need to continue sharing the best experiences in coping with natural disasters, Parrilla affirmed.
The signing takes place in a global context that demonstrates the values of solidarity and cooperation to address global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cuban minister further remarked.
He pledged to cooperate with the ASEAN in the areas of biotechnology, pharmacy, medical services, Spanish language teaching, culture, sports, and strategies to address climate change, suggesting the establishment of a joint biotech research and development centre in ASEAN and the holding of clinical tests.
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Reporter: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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