ASEAN looks to increase cultural ties
VGP - ASEAN member countries have agreed to intensify cooperation in culture and arts in forming the ASEAN Community by 2015.
Photo: VNA |
Anh, who is also the AMCA Chairman, further said member states have acknowledged their cultural accomplishments on the path of realizing the regional Cultural – Social Community Plan of Action, citing cultural city projects, music performances and youth volunteer schemes as examples.
At the plenary session, ministers hailed new initiatives that encourage youngsters and cultural activists to engage more in artistic activities.
During the related meetings, China pledged to put the 2014-2018 ASEAN – China cooperation action plan into practice, especially during their cultural exchange year 2014.
Japan presented a new ASEAN cultural exchange policy, which centers on a project to make Asia more interactive through fusion and harmony. Meanwhile, the RoK will work closely with the bloc in preserving and developing cultural values, enhancing capacity for training courses and crafting art products.
Recognizing the importance of the ASEAN – China, ASEAN – RoK and ASEAN – Japan Centers, which are tasked with promoting bilateral cultural exchange and tourism, ministers asked the Senior Official Meeting for Culture and Arts participants to join efforts in identifying promising areas for collaboration.
The next AMCA meeting and related talks with dialogue partners will be held in Brunei in 2016.-VNA