Brunei Ambassador: Kuwait's accession to the ASEAN Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation marks a new chapter in relations
She confirmed that she is an important partner for the Association
The Ambassador of the Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam, Haji Seline Haji Said, emphasized the importance of the relations linking Kuwait with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), expressing his aspiration to build on the momentum achieved during previous summits and to enhance cooperation in upcoming endeavors, thereby pushing the relations between the two sides to broader horizons.
The Ambassador, in a speech delivered during a celebratory event marking the anniversary of the founding of the "ASEAN" association, attended by Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Asian Affairs Nawaf Al-Ahmad, welcomed Kuwait’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, considering the step as a reflection of its commitment to the principles of peaceful cooperation and respect for international law, and affirming the depth of relations linking it with the countries of the region.
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He pointed out that 2023 marked an important milestone in the course of relations between "ASEAN" and Kuwait, with the holding of the first summit between the two sides, which opened a new chapter in relations and joint cooperation.
He clarified that the second summit between "ASEAN" and the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) adopted the "ASEAN 2035" cooperation framework, reflecting a collective commitment to deepening partnership in several vital areas, foremost among them trade and investment, energy security, food security, digital transformation, tourism, education, and climate action.
The Ambassador praised the role played by the Kuwaiti government in supporting cooperation with "ASEAN," emphasizing the importance of continuing joint efforts to enhance the partnership between the countries of the Association and Kuwait and the GCC countries, contributing to achieving a more prosperous and stable future for the peoples of the region.
Regarding the Association's journey, he said that "ASEAN," founded in 1967, has evolved into a community comprising 11 countries and more than 680 million people, working together to build a more inclusive, resilient, and people-centric region. He noted that the Association represents a regional community based on friendship, trust, and cooperation, and continues to consolidate its commitment to achieving regional peace and prosperity, and enhancing cooperation among its member states and partners based on mutual respect and commitment to international law.
He highlighted "ASEAN's" success during its history in expanding its partnerships beyond the Southeast Asia region, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with international partners in facing common challenges and enhancing opportunities for development and prosperity.
He pointed out that the embassies of "ASEAN" countries accredited to Kuwait work closely through the committee affiliated with the Association to enhance bilateral relations with Kuwait, promote the cultures of Southeast Asian countries, and strengthen understanding and communication between the peoples of the region and the Kuwaiti society.
He clarified that these efforts include organizing cultural, social, and humanitarian activities, alongside environmental and community initiatives, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and solidarity that characterizes "ASEAN."
The Ambassador expressed his appreciation for the Kuwaiti government for providing a welcoming, hospitable, and safe environment for the citizens of "ASEAN" countries residing in Kuwait, especially in light of the circumstances and challenges facing the region. He noted that Kuwait’s open society and culture based on coexistence have allowed everyone to celebrate the anniversary of the Association’s founding with a spirit of friendship and a single community.
He affirmed that celebrating the founding anniversary represents an occasion to renew commitment to its principles and objectives, stressing that it is not merely a regional organization, but a community based on friendship, trust, and cooperation, aspiring to strengthen bonds of closeness among its member states and partners.