HANOI, Jan. 1 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Wednesday extended New Year greetings to leaders of countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), calling for joining hands to build and nurture the ASEAN Community towards prosperity and sustainable development.
In his letter of New Year greetings, the prime minister wishes ASEAN leaders, their family and people of ASEAN community a New Year "full of health, happiness and success."
"(The year of) 2020 is forecast to be a difficult and challenging year with unpredictable changes in the region and the world. However, all of these difficulties and challenges will not prevent us from moving towards a common goal - a solidarity, united, peaceful, prosperous and sustainably developed ASEAN community," he added.
"As chairman of ASEAN 2020, Vietnam hopes to work with countries to implement specific activities and initiatives, consolidate solidarity, promote links and connectivity, enhance identity, promote external relations and improve ASEAN's operational efficiency. Vietnam wishes to receive the active support and cooperation of other countries in implementing these initiatives," he said.
Vietnam will assume ASEAN's annual rotating chair on Jan. 1, 2020. It has chosen "Cohesive and Responsive" as the theme for the chairmanship year.
