10 August 2014 - Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario and Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop jointly presided over the ASEAN-Australia Ministerial Meeting held today, August 10, at Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar.
In his statement, Secretary Del Rosario noted 40 years of vibrant ASEAN-Australia dialogue relations in fields ranging from development cooperation and disaster relief assistance to various socio-cultural agenda.
"As we look back to 40 years of ASEAN-Australia dialogue relations, we have reason to be proud of how our partnership has broadened and deepened, helping us move forward the dream of ASEAN integration and making a real difference in the quality of life of our peoples," Secretary Del Rosario stated.
The Secretary also expressed the Philippines' deep gratitude to the people and Government of Australia for their support to the victims and survivors of Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda.
For her part, Foreign Minister Bishop conveyed her country's continuing commitment to its partnership with ASEAN. She also acknowledged the "shared stake in regional security and stability," as reflected by security arrangements and Australia's role in shaping regional security institutions.
Australia became ASEAN's very first Dialogue Partner in 1974. Last February, the Foreign Minister visited Manila to mark the official launch of the 40th anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations. The anniversary celebration will culminate in the ASEAN-Australia Commemorative Summit in November in Nay Pyi Taw.
The Philippines serves as Country Coordinator for ASEAN-Australia Relations for this year, to be succeeded by Myanmar in 2015. END