1. We, the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Ministers and Heads of Delegation, joined the 23rd ASCC Council Meeting organised via video conference on 23 June 2020, under the chairmanship of Viet Nam.

2. We extend our full support to the Viet Nam ASEAN Chairmanship’s areas of focus, including Labour and Human Resources Development; Social Welfare, Health and Development; Communication and Information; ASEAN Culture, Awareness and Identity; Environment and Climate Change; and the Mid-Term Review (MTR) for the ASCC Pillar. In line with its theme of ‘Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN’, the five priorities of Viet Nam’s ASEAN Chairmanship are: (i) peace, security, and stability; (ii) regional connection, cohesiveness, taking advantage of opportunities; (iii) promote ASEAN identity and awareness about the ASEAN Community; (iv) enhance ASEAN’s global partnership for peace, stability, and sustainable development; and (v) increase ASEAN’s institutional capacity and effectiveness.

Download the full statement here.