Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 19) — President Rodrigo Duterte led the closing ceremony of a gathering of lawmakers in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
In his speech at the close of the 38th ASEAN Inter-parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), Duterte pointed out the importance of the region moving as one, mentioning this year’s theme, “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.”
“The theme calls on ASEAN to strongly commit ourselves to move ahead as one united organization – [An] ASEAN that works towards positive change for the ordinary peoples of Southeast Asia while taking [an] active part in regional and global affairs,” he said.
“Widening development gaps within countries and across the region need to be dealt with. Further, it is important to make economic gains translate to tangible benefits and long-term improvements in the lives of our ASEAN people,” Duterte added.
President Duterte cited AIPA for helping speed up the ratification of ASEAN agreements.
“I call upon ASEAN and AIPA to further deepen their engagement and partnership so that we can bring about the realization of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 – entailing a united, inclusive, and resilient political- security community; a highly integrated and cohesive economic community; and a socio-cultural community that engages and benefits the peoples of ASEAN,” he said.
AIPA is a venue for legislators from ASEAN and observers from other countries to tackle pressing issues in the region and policies aimed at reaching the region’s goals.
This year’s gathering coincided with the 50th anniversary of ASEAN and AIPA’s 40th anniversary.
Also in the event, Senate President Koko Pimentel spoke to guests and representatives of AIPA members, saying, “AIPA exists to achieve ASEAN’s dream to promote regional peace, stability, and prosperity among the peoples of its member countries.”
He urged his ASEAN colleagues to speak for the people who voted them into office.
“Let us work hard for AIPA to help bring ASEAN closer to our peoples. This is where teamwork can best work for AIPA and ASEAN,” Pimentel said.
CNN Philippines digital producer Pia Garcia contributed to this report.
