NARASINETWORK.COM - The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Kao Kim Hourn, presided at the graduation ceremony for officers in the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Attachment Programme at the ASEAN Secretariat Headquarters today. The ceremony marked the completion of the one-year programme for 15 government officials from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste (CLMV-TL).
The programme is supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan–ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). It enhances capacity among government officials by providing direct insight into the operations at the ASEAN Secretariat and ASEAN cooperation mechanisms.
This year’s cohort includes participants from Timor-Leste, ASEAN’s newest Member State. The inclusion reflects ASEAN’s dedication to supporting Timor-Leste as it integrates into the ASEAN Community, with capacity-building as a key element of this process.
In his address, Dr Kao mentioned that the IAI Attachment Programme is a prominent ASEAN initiative and has been running for many years. He highlighted its role in developing institutional capabilities, preparing future leaders in the region, and lessening development disparities across ASEAN Member States. The Secretary-General expressed ASEAN’s thanks to Japan for its support of the programme.
Implemented under the IAI Work Plan IV (2021–2025), the initiative places Attachment Officers in divisions within the ASEAN Political-Security Community Department, ASEAN Economic Community Department, and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Department. During their placement, officers acquire practical experience that enhances their understanding of ASEAN policies, procedures, working practices, and regional collaboration methods.
