20 December 2016 – Philippine Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Luningning G. Camoying, discussed the priorities of the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship at the International Conference on “Russia and ASEAN in the Asia-Pacific region: dynamics of cooperation, regional processes, and global context”, which was held at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) University on December 09.
Speaking to an audience of scholars and think tank experts from ASEAN and Russia, Chargé d’Affaires Camoying stated that the Philippines is privileged to assume the chairmanship of ASEAN next year and steer the region in writing a new chapter in its community building process.
She stressed that under the theme “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World”, the Philippines will be guided by six thematic priorities: a people-centered and people-oriented ASEAN; peace and stability in the region; maritime security and cooperation; inclusive and innovation-led growth; ASEAN resiliency; and ASEAN as a model of regionalism and a global player.
“In line with the sixth thematic priority, strengthening the ASEAN-Russia dialogue will be a key objective given that Russia is a global actor and could be a strong voice for peace and stability in the Asia Pacific region”, Chargé d’Affaires Camoying added.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia Dialogue. The year-long celebration was capped by a commemorative summit in Russia last May where the Sochi Declaration was adopted. This landmark document enshrines the political commitment of both sides to intensify cooperation with a view to establishing an ASEAN-Russia strategic partnership.
The International Conference on “Russia and ASEAN in the Asia-Pacific region” was organized by the ASEAN Centre in MGIMO University within the framework of the 10th Russian International Studies Convention. It was held from December 08 to 09 in Moscow, gathering together leading Russian and foreign experts in international relations, government officials, diplomats, and media. END