Hanoi, April 14 -- The Vietnamese minister highlighted the significance of ASEAN unity and centrality, urging the bloc to uphold its principled stance and strengthen its role when engaging with relevant parties to ensure the safety of ASEAN vessels and citizens in the region.

ASEAN should enhance its strategic autonomy, promote cross-pillar and cross-sectoral coordination, and improve its capacity to cope with complex future challenges, suggested Le.

The Vietnamese Minister called for accelerating key connectivity projects such as the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) and the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline (TAGP), while remaining ready to activate emergency support mechanisms under the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement (APSA).

He also called for an in...