Myanmar assumes Asean chairmanship
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Bandar Seri Begawan - Myanmar on Thursday assumed the chairmanship of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (Asean) for the first time since it became a member, despite concerns over sectarian violence and its human rights record.
Myanmar President Thein Sein said it was an honour for his country, which became a member of the Asean in 1997 and was forced to relinquish a turn to take the chairmanship in 2006.
Thein Sein said Myanmar would use the chairmanship to help highlight reforms that his country had undergone in recent years.
He also stressed the need for Asean to remain united. "Our unity and solidarity have endured the test of time and we must continue to maintain and preserve this noble tradition," he said.//DPA
