Legal harmonization in ASEAN is so necessary that each member state should be required to make active contributions to establish a common legal framework, so the group can reduce legal differences and barriers, heard a workshop in Hanoi on March 17.
Chief Justice of the Supreme People’s Court Truong Hoa Binh highlighted the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) on December 31, 2015, as a new stride by member states to promote deep and comprehensive integration in the global market.
The AEC will boost the trade and investment flow within the bloc, he said, adding that along with opportunities, difficulties and challenges lie ahead, including those relevant to legal and judicial issues.
In that context, legal harmonization in ASEAN has become the top concern of ASEAN judicial agencies, he said, adding that there are certain challenges in harmonizing the interests of each country due to their diversity in economics, politics, society and legal systems.
Therefore, it is necessary to promote mutual assistance and solidarity, to make the proper moves and promptly deal with any disputes, to ensure the legitimate rights and interests of relevant individuals and organizations, he said.
Legal harmonization in ASEAN will bring member countries closer and reduce legal disputes in civil procedure, he added.
The Vietnamese court, in particular, plays a crucial role in ASEAN integration and legal harmonization, participants said.
The court has made active contributions to the field, such as promoting the recognition of multinational arbitrators and executing their verdicts, and proposing the National Assembly review and supplement laws – especially the Law on Procedure, in accordance with international standards.
It also actively participates in regional forums that enhance judicial cooperation and prepares the infrastructure and human resource conditions necessary to join the judicial integration of ASEAN.
The 4th conference for ASEAN Chief Justices will take place in Ho Chi Minh City from March 31 to April 1.
Source: VNA
Keywords: Legal harmonization, ASEAN crucial
