Today, as we celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the creation of ASEAN on August 8, 1967, in Bangkok, France pays tribute to the exceptional dynamism of this region and affirms its support for ASEAN's continued development.

Trade between France and ASEAN is expanding and amounted to almost €30 billion in 2016. The high-level visits that have punctuated our shared history reflect the close ties between France and the countries of Southeast Asia. Our friendly and trusting relations have led to ever-growing cooperation in the economic, academic and cultural fields, as well as on the security front. Our special ties enable us to face major global challenges together based on our shared principles, notably our attachment to international law and multilateralism.

While the EU is also celebrating its 60^th anniversary this year, France hopes that trade between our two regional organizations will continue to grow.