The gathering drew scholars, experts, officials from advisory and state agencies, diplomats and representatives from domestic and foreign research organisations, providing an academic platform to assess Vietnam's role in ASEAN development while addressing new challenges and cooperation pathways amid global and regional changes.

In his opening speech, President of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences Prof. Le Van Loi highlighted Vietnam's transformative ASEAN journey over the past 30 years. From initial integration, the country has emerged as an active, proactive and responsible member, driving shared progress within the bloc. Vietnam's growing influence stems from substantive contributions across sectors, bolstered by domestic political-economic stability and rising global stature.

In the socio-cultural pillar, ASEAN membership has enabled Vietnam to expand cultural exchanges and spread national values worldwide. Collaboration under the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) has also supported Vietnam's efforts to tackle environmental and social welfare challenges.

Emerging drivers such as digital transformation, green growth, circular economy and innovation are gaining traction. ASEAN's Community Vision 2045 targets a resilient, dynamic, innovative, cohesive, people-centred, and inclusive region, spotlighting green economy, digital transformation, sustainable development, and enhanced regional connectivity.

Vietnam's accomplishments have bolstered ASEAN's overall achievements while solidifying its own position as a firm pillar, Loi said, adding that Vietnam reaffirms its strong confidence in the spirit of regional unity, cooperation, and strategic value, while committing to continue being a proactive, active, and responsible contributor to a cohesive, inclusive, and resilient ASEAN Community.

Discussions centred on Vietnam's 30-year engagement in ASEAN's political-security, economic and socio-cultural domains, spotlighting successes, lessons learned and development trends toward for greater resilience, connectivity and adaptability, along with Vietnam's future outlook and priorities in the process.

The seminar was anticipated to yield scholarly and policy insights to inform research and advisory efforts, further defining Vietnam's role and directions in ASEAN cooperation toward a united, resilient and sustainably developing community.

ASEAN meeting to drive regional cooperation, growth by removing barriers

The 111th Meeting of the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Services (CCS 111) is underway in Nha Trang ward, the southern province of Khanh Hoa.