(KPL\VNA) – The 44th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-44) opened in Jakarta, Indonesia on August 7 with the participation of 568 delegates.

Of the delegates, there are parliament heads of nine ASEAN member countries and representatives from 17 observers and guest countries together with nine international organisations.

Vietnam's National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue attended the opening ceremony.

Speaking at the event, Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR RI) Puan Maharani affirmed that AIPA-44 is an opportunity for the parliaments of Southeast Asian countries to strengthen their commitment to respond to global and regional challenges and issues.

She said that AIPA will work for the people's aspirations for a safe, peaceful, prosperous, healthy, civilized, and friendly life, and at the same time, find common points for commitments despite differences among member countries.      

Emphasising that stability is a prerequisite for economic development and growth in Southeast Asia, contributing to global economic stability and growth, the chair of AIPA 43 pledged that AIPA will continue to promote necessary commitments to maintain and ensure a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Southeast Asia.

With the theme of "Responsive Parliaments for A Stable and Prosperous ASEAN," AIPA-44 highlights the adaptability of ASEAN parliaments in the context of regional and international fluctuations, with an emphasis on dialogue and consultation and strengthened coordination between legislative and executive channels, contributing to strengthening solidarity and centrality of ASEAN.

KPL