ASEAN gained prominence in the region over the last half of the previous century.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been transformed into a more solid and stable organization over the past 48 years, according to Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla.
He made the statement while attending the commemoration of the associations anniversary at the ASEAN Secretariat here on Monday.
"ASEAN has been transformed from the unstable and disintegrated organization it once was into its current harmonious and stable state. This is a remarkable achievement as compared to those in other regions of the world," Kalla said in his speech.
ASEAN gained prominence in the region over the last half of the previous century.
It plays an important role in ensuring economic growth of its member states, as part of economic development in the 21st century, he remarked.
"The strategic role of ASEAN in the region is recognized as a new major force. ASEAN has gained global recognition, including from parties that want to become its dialogue partners," Kalla pointed out.
ASEAN was established on August 8, 1967, in Bangkok, Thailand, with the signing of a declaration by the founding fathers, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
Seventeen years after the declaration was signed, Brunei Darussalam became a member on January 7.
Later, Laos became a member on July 23, 1997, and Myanmar in 1999. Cambodia became the 10th member of ASEAN.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2015
