Setting up of ASEAN Parliament is a long-term objective: Tarmugi
By S Ramesh, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 20 August 2007 1905 hrs

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KUALA LUMPUR : There have been numerous suggestions in the past for the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Association (AIPA) to facilitate the setting up of an ASEAN Parliament.

Singapore's Speaker of Parliament, Abdullah Tarmugi said this is an initiative that the Association should explore as a longer-term objective taking into account the state of ASEAN's development.

Speaking at the Association's 28th General Assembly in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, he noted that ASEAN has only beginning to explore and attempt to establish a common identity after 40 years of existence.

So while the ten-member grouping can begin the process towards creating an ASEAN Parliament, the reality is that the countries are still a grouping with diverse political, governing and legal systems.

But that did not mean the Association cannot play any constructive role in supporting ASEAN's integration.

Mr Abdullah stressed ASEAN's national legislative bodies should help to accelerate the passing of relevant laws to implement national, regional and international agreements which would promote greater ASEAN integration.

The many opportunities that the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Association provides to legislators in the region to get to know one another, to exchange best practices and experiences, also went a long way in helping to promote better relationships between countries.

Singapore is currently ASEAN's Chair.

Mr Abdullah said: "Singapore is honoured to assume the Chairmanship of ASEAN from the Philippines earlier this month, and will host the ASEAN Summit in November this year. At this Summit, one of the key deliverables will be the signing of the ASEAN Charter. This will be a momentous occasion as it will strengthen ASEAN and elevate its status as a regional organisation."

He noted that the Charter would help lay the foundations for a more solid and efficient institutional and legal framework for ASEAN.

He added: "Not only would the Charter promote the acceleration of plans for greater integration within ASEAN, it would also help put in a place a system in which more ASEAN agreements would be effectively implemented and enforced long after the symbolic signing ceremonies. Beyond this, the Charter would also be a visionary document, to inspire the peoples of ASEAN and our future generations, and to engage them more closely in the future of our region." - CNA/ch