The year 2021 saw Brunei Darussalam assume the role of ASEAN Chair, a position that rotates annually among the member states. As the 2021 Asean Chair, Brunei played a pivotal role in steering the regional bloc through a period marked by unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Themed “We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper,” Brunei’s chairmanship sought to foster a people-centered and resilient ASEAN community.
Navigating the Pandemic and Beyond
A top priority for the 2021 ASEAN Chair was addressing the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Brunei led efforts to strengthen regional health cooperation, including facilitating access to vaccines and medical supplies. The chairmanship also focused on mitigating the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic, particularly on vulnerable groups.
Advancing Economic Integration
Despite the pandemic’s disruptive effects, Brunei worked towards advancing the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025. This included promoting digital trade, facilitating cross-border payments, and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The 2021 ASEAN Chair also emphasized the importance of sustainable and inclusive growth, with a focus on green recovery initiatives.
Strengthening ASEAN Centrality
Brunei’s chairmanship underscored the importance of ASEAN centrality in the evolving regional architecture. This involved enhancing dialogue and cooperation with external partners, including through ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the East Asia Summit (EAS) and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). Brunei also sought to strengthen ASEAN’s institutional capacity and effectiveness in addressing regional challenges.
Promoting People-to-People Connectivity
Recognizing the importance of people-to-people bonds, the 2021 ASEAN Chair prioritized initiatives that fostered greater understanding and appreciation of ASEAN’s diverse cultures and heritage. This included promoting cultural exchanges, youth leadership programs, and educational collaborations among ASEAN member states.
Brunei’s Legacy as 2021 ASEAN Chair
Brunei’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2021 demonstrated the country’s commitment to multilateralism and regional cooperation. Despite facing a challenging global landscape, Brunei effectively steered ASEAN towards a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future. The initiatives and priorities set forth during Brunei’s chairmanship continue to shape ASEAN’s agenda and contribute to the region’s ongoing development.
Brunei Cultural Exchange
Conclusion
Brunei’s leadership as the 2021 ASEAN Chair left a lasting impact on the regional bloc, navigating the complexities of the pandemic while advancing key priorities. The chairmanship reinforced the values of unity, resilience, and cooperation that underpin the ASEAN community. As ASEAN continues to evolve, the legacy of Brunei’s 2021 chairmanship serves as a valuable foundation for future endeavors.
FAQ
- What was the theme of Brunei’s 2021 ASEAN Chairmanship?
- The theme was “We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper.”
- What were some of the key priorities of Brunei’s chairmanship?
- Key priorities included addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, advancing economic integration, strengthening ASEAN centrality, and promoting people-to-people connectivity.
- How did Brunei’s chairmanship contribute to ASEAN’s response to the pandemic?
- Brunei led efforts to strengthen regional health cooperation, facilitate access to vaccines, and mitigate the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic.
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