PICC, Pasay City
April 29, 2017

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, together with his fellow leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), opened the plenary session for the 30th ASEAN Summit focusing on the theme, ‘Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.’

In his opening remarks, President Duterte underscored the importance of unity, solidarity and cooperation among the nations in Southeast Asia that have defined ASEAN’s collective success over the last five decades. He encouraged his fellow ASEAN leaders to work closely together for each nation to become politically and economically strong.

“We are gathered today with the desire to move forward together. Dedicated in our work towards genuine transformation that will benefit all our people,” President Duterte said.

The President mentioned the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 as one of the topics for the plenary session. The said vision aims to deepen ASEAN’s community-building and regional integration process. It is vital in building the future direction of the ASEAN community in the next generation.

Aside from this, the summit will focus on six thematic priorities, which include Peace and Stability in the region; Maritime Security and Cooperation; Inclusive and Innovation-led Growth, ASEAN’s Resiliency; ASEAN: A Model of Regionalism, a Global Player; and a People-Oriented and People-Centered ASEAN. Such priorities are in line with the ASEAN Community’s master plans.

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