Dick Lugar: “today, I rise to introduce ``The U.S. Ambassador for ASEAN Act'', which signals the importance of bolstering the…”

“today, I rise to introduce ``The U.S. Ambassador for ASEAN Act'', which signals the importance of bolstering the U.S.-ASEAN relationship for our mutual benefit. ASEAN was originally established in 1967. The founding Members, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, remain as anchor participants of ASEAN today. Overall membership has expanded, with ten countries now comprising ASEAN. Over the years, ASEAN has contributed to regional stability in East Asia and has partnered with the United States to combat global terror. In addition to promoting regional peace and stability, ASEAN is committed to accelerating economic growth, social progress, and cultural development. ASEAN is the third largest export market for United States products, and has received approximately $90 billion in direct investment from U.S. sources. Nearly 40,000 ASEAN students are studying in the United States. The United States maintains bilateral relationships with the ASEAN Member countries. However, as ASEAN develops an integrated free trade area and addresses matters of common concern with the United States-- ranging from environmental and financial challenges to avian influenza and terrorism--it is appropriate for the United States to enhance its overall relationship with ASEAN. With this in mind, my legislation establishes the position of U.S. Ambassador for ASEAN, subject to advice and consent of the Senate.…”