23 August 2013 - The ASEAN Committee in Abuja (ACA) under the chairmanship of Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria Alex V. Lamadrid, commemorated the 46th Anniversary of ASEAN by hoisting the ASEAN flag at the residence of Indonesian Ambassador Sudirman Haseng, followed by a brief program.

The program was highlighted by remarks of Ambassador Lamadrid on the significance of ASEAN and the cutting of the anniversary cake by the five ASEAN Ambassadors in Abuja.

Ambassador Lamadrid underscored the successes of ASEAN integration since its creation in 1968 on the basis of ASEAN’s three pilllars and the creation of the ASEAN Community by 2015. He particularly cited the economic gains made by ASEAN member countries. Ambassador Lamadrid likewise expressed that ASEAN looks forward to working hand in hand with Nigeria and the other members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The ASEAN Day celebration coincided with Eid ul-Fitr. The Indonesian Ambassador Haseng hosted lunch, which was attended by officers and staff of Embassies of the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the High Commision of Malaysia, as well as many foreign friends.  END