In a speech at the event, Thai Ambassador Pornchai Danvivathana, who is also Chair of the APC reviewed the regional bloc's development over the past five decades, saying that the ten ASEAN member states have worked towards a well-connected bloc in politics and economics.

ASEAN plays a central role in addressing regional security issues, especially in the East Sea, by pursuing peaceful resolutions in line with international law, the ambassador stressed. 

Danvivathana glowingly spoke of the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community last year as an important milestone for regional connectivity that demonstrates the grouping’s commitment to building a common market of more than 620 million people. 

He also hailed all-around cooperation between ASEAN and South Africa, particularly in two-way trade which was estimated at more than US$7.7 billion.

The APC Chairman affirmed  ASEAN's willingness to develop relations with South Africa and its neighbours targeting trade and investment. 

South African representatives praised the regional grouping's activities in the country and discussed with ASEAN ambassadors on ways to further promote relations in the future.