The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is moving on to the fourth and final phase of implementation of ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint (2014-2015) after completion of the third phase (2012-2013).

It was claimed by the ASEAN foreign ministers in their joint communique issued on Sunday, the final day of their 47th annual meeting in Nay Pyi Taw, chaired by Myanmar.

As for the implementation of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community blueprint, ASEAN foreign ministers called for acceleration of the implementation of the remaining action lines under the blueprint in order to realize a people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN Community.

The foreign ministers also reiterated their commitment to enhancing the well-being and livelihood of the people in ASEAN countries by providing them with equitable access to opportunities for human development, social welfare and justice as enshrined in the ASEAN Charter.

They stressed the importance of implementing on-going projects under the endorsed Framework Action Plan on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication (2011-2015).

In the communique, the foreign ministers also highlighted the importance of culture as a vital element in building an ASEAN identity and unifying forces for ASEAN Community building.

The three-day 47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting was held from Friday to Sunday under the theme "Moving forward in Unity to a Peaceful and Prosperous Community".

ASEAN comprises ten member countries -- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
(Xinhua)