Vientiane (VNA) – A solemn flag-raising ceremonywas held at the office of the Lao Foreign Ministry in Vientiane to mark the 53rd anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Speaking at the August 4 event, Lao Foreign MinisterSaleumsay Kommasith stressed that over the past 53 years, the regional bloc hasmade considerable contributions to peace, stability and prosperity in the regionand the world over. He also highlighted the successes recorded at the 36th ASEAN Summit and related meetings held only with Vietnam on the chair.

According to him, over the past 23 years since Laos joinedASEAN, the country has taken an active part in the grouping’s orientations,helping raised its role at regional and international arenas.

The Lao official reaffirmed his country’s commitments to continuingits active part in the ASEAN orientations towards the realisation of the buildingof the ASEAN Community by 2025. He also spoke highly of support, assistance andcooperation from all the other ASEAN member countries and dialogue partnerswhich, he said, have helped Laos implement fully and effectively itscommitments as a member of the ASEAN over the past 23 years./.