The duty of solidarity
Re: "What really connects the people of Asean?" Streetwise, July 28.
This question is a crucial one.
In addition to the relevant elements of answer contained in this informative article it should be noted that the 10 Asean member states are expected to pay maximum attention to all their legal commitments under the Asean Charter. This multilateral legal instrument specifically refers to the need to strengthen existing bonds of regional solidarity, while stipulating that in the conduct of their external relations Asean member states shall, on the basis of unity and solidarity, coordinate and endeavour to develop common positions and pursue joint actions.
The Asean summits have the complex diplomatic task to further define appropriate ways and means to give appropriate tangibility to regional solidarity in order to realise an Asean community that is politically cohesive, economically integrated and socially responsible.
The duty of solidarity was very recently strongly revalidated.
On July 27, the United Nations General Assembly adopted by consensus, on behalf of 193 member states, including all Asean members, a resolution by which it endorsed the Addis Ababa Action Agenda of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development. The first paragraph of this comprehensive document (38 pages) contains a strong political commitment to address the challenge of financing and creating an enabling environment at all levels for sustainable development in the spirit of global partnership and solidarity.
Ioan Voicu
