MANILA, Philippines—Noting that ASEAN is "becoming a center of gravity" of Southeast Asia, the European Union on Monday congratulated the regional bloc on the entry into force of the ASEAN Charter."This is a very important day for the ASEAN on its path to create a rule-based organization and the ASEAN community for the benefit of all its people," said Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), in a statement e-mailed to media outfits. ASEAN, which groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, is patterned in part on the EU integration model, wherein among others a common currency is envisioned. "The ASEAN Charter will provide a framework that will enable the organization to better address today's challenges and assume responsibilities to enhance peace, security, and stability, as well as economic growth, and to promote the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights in the region," Solana said. "I am looking forward to continue working with the ASEAN Secretary-General on strengthening EU-ASEAN relations," he added. EU has been a strong supporter of the integration of the region, providing funds for various ASEAN bodies, including the ASEAN Biodiversity Center in Los Baños, Laguna. |
