JAKARTA, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam will officially chair the Association of the South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in period in 2010, replacing Thailand, the detikcom online news quoted a statement as saying on Saturday.

    Vietnam will lead the organization to Dec. 31 with the theme of "Toward ASEAN Community: from Vision to Mission."

    In the press release, the organization's Secretary-General Surin Pitsuwan said that he was impressed with Vietnam's preparation in taking over the leadership.

    "The new leader has a priority set and useful agenda as an implementation guidance and a support for member countries, the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN's dialog partners and other external parties," said Surin.

    In its next one-year leadership, Vietnam will focus on cooperation with other member countries in accelerating the realization of various agreements, plans and programs.

    Surin also stated his highest appreciation to Thailand for its very good leadership in 2009.

    Surin welcomed Vietnam as the new leader and was hoping tighter coordination between the ASEAN Secretariat and Vietnam.

    The ASEAN was established in Aug. 8, 1967 while Vietnam joined the association in July 28, 1995. 

Special Report:  China-ASEAN FTA