Vietnam's 31 Years in ASEAN: Growing Together, Moving Forward

Since becoming the seventh member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on July 28, 1995, Vietnam has steadily strengthened its standing as a proactive, active, and responsible member of the regional bloc. Over the past 31 years, Vietnam has consistently made proactive contributions to maintaining peace and stability, promoting prosperity, advancing regional integration, and building the ASEAN Community. Vietnam's journey within ASEAN has seen it evolve from a newcomer to a significant shaper of regional cooperation. Indonesian experts have lauded Vietnam's contributions to ASEAN community-building, highlighting its crucial role in both economic growth and the deepening of regional collaboration. Under its one-party system, Vietnam's economic development has served as a foundation for its expanding influence within ASEAN. Amidst complex relations with China, multilateral cooperation through ASEAN is a key element of Vietnam's foreign policy strategy. As an ASEAN member, Vietnam contributes to stabilizing the regional order while pursuing its national interests.