Secretary-General (Secretary) Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Surin Pitsuwan states, ASEAN has become an important significance in the development of Asian countries. This was conveyed by him during the celebration of the 44th anniversary of ASEAN.

The man from Thailand was opened anniversary event in Asean Asean Hall, the ASEAN Secretariat in Kebayoran, Jakarta today. ASEAN anniversary celebration was attended by Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa and some diplomats of ASEAN partner countries.

For the Secretary General of ASEAN, this year is a special year for the organization of this Southeast Asian country, which Indonesia currently holds the Chair of Asean.

"Every year, we entered into this tradition and is currently the President will give a lecture (lecture). Asean today is more advanced, even the significance of ASEAN development of Asia," Surin said at the opening of the Asean Day 44th ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, Monday (08/08/2011).

Celebration of the 44th anniversary of ASEAN itself is filled with a President who gave a public lecture for 30 minutes about Asean. In addition the Minister of Foreign Affairs Marty Natalegawa ASEAN batik exhibition will open after the speeches SBY.

Approximately 300 invitations reportedly attended the birthday celebration of Asean this year. Surely today will be a special day for Asean and all member states.