| Summary/Abstract |
In the 21st Century, the Asia-Pacific has gained geo-strategic prominence because of its importance for both, regional and global security. Regional multilateral mechanisms have grown after the end of the Cold War. The growth has not only been in numbers, but also in terms of participants, cooperation agenda and programmes. This may either contribute towards strengthening centrality of Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), or cause obstacles in its functioning. The influence of ASEAN has decreased in recent years. So far, ASEAN has been considered strategic fulcrum for Vietnam’s foreign policy. Together with other ASEAN members and its partners, Vietnam should make efforts to support, maintain and promote ASEAN’s centrality in regional multilateral security architecture for peace, security and stability.
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