WASHINGTON - A resolution in the House on the eve of a visit to Washington by foreign ministers of Asean, has underlined the importance of the US' strategic partnership with the 10-member regional group.

Introduced on May 3 by Congressman Joaquin Castro and Congresswoman Ann Wagner, co-chairs of the recently formed Congressional Caucus on Asean, the resolution recognised the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Asean, and the 40th anniversary of US-Asean relations and the "positive outcomes" of engagement.

It listed Asean nations' "contributions to stability, prosperity, and peace in South-east Asia."

In a joint statement e-mailed to The Straits Times, Mr Castro said the resolution "recognises the strength of the US-Asean economic and strategic partnership and the importance of increased engagement between the United States and Asean member states."

"Working together, the United States and Asean can address pressing issues like the North Korean threat, maritime disputes, human trafficking, access to education, and food security. Our nations will become safer and more prosperous if we deepen our relationships."

Ms Wagner, who is a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said: "In January, we started the bipartisan Congressional Caucus on Asean to expand dialogue and engagement with our South-east Asian peers, and we are delighted to reaffirm the special relationship between Asean and the United States."

"From trade to maritime security, from business to human rights, the US-Asean strategic partnership is one of America's most important, and I issue a hearty welcome to the Av foreign ministers in Washington this week."