OREANDA-NEWS  Russia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to strengthen cooperation in politics, security, economics and other areas of mutual interest, according to a joint statement by the foreign ministers of the ASEAN member states and the Russian Federation.

"To promote cooperation in the fields of politics and security, economics, social, technical, scientific and administrative spheres, as well as other areas of cooperation where ASEAN and Russia have relevant experience and mutual interests, including maritime cooperation and the ASEAN-Russia dialogue on information security issues," the document says.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will deepen cooperation with Russia in the structures of this organization, follows from the statement.

"We are deepening cooperation between ASEAN and Russia within the framework of specialized structures headed by ASEAN, in particular, at the East Asia Summit, the ASEAN Regional Forum, meetings in the CMOA Plus format, as well as on platforms such as the Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum through active, inclusive, full, equal, effective and constructive participation with a view to strengthening the central role of ASEAN and the effectiveness of these mechanisms," the statement said.

Over the past 30 years, Russia-ASEAN relations have turned into a mutually beneficial strategic partnership, the text of the statement says.

"Over the past 30 years, Russia-ASEAN relations have turned into a mutually beneficial strategic partnership, supported by progressive and comprehensive dialogue and cooperation, and Russia's accession to the TAC (Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation in Southeast Asia - ed.) has strengthened its contribution to peace, stability and sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region," - the document says.

The text notes that the parties will make joint efforts within the framework of ASEAN cooperation with Moscow, including for development in accordance with previously adopted programs and plans.