Hanoi, Oct. 1 -- The Prime Minister emphasized that ASEAN has always been a strategic priority in Viet Nam's foreign policy, adding that the bloc plays a critically important and strategic role in maintaining peace, stability and development in the region.

Le also called for faster ratification of the ASEAN Treaty on Extradition, signed in the Philippines in November 2025, to give member states a stronger legal footing against crime, and for effective enforcement of other relevant international treaties and agreements.

He urged the bloc to effectively implement relevant international treaties and agreements related to the fight against wanted fugitives; establish formal cooperation mechanisms among ASEAN member states, including hotline...