General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense, attends the 16th ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting. Photo: VNA

In the declaration on solidarity for harmonious security, the ministers reiterated that the observance of principles and basic targets set in the ASEAN Charter  and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia aims to enhance the grouping’s centrality and solidarity, and maintain regional order.

The document also highlights the significance of maintaining and promoting a favourable environment for the early completion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in line with international law, as well as fully and effectively implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC).

Vietnam’s Minister of National Defense General Phan Van Giang told the meeting that Vietnam supports Cambodia to fulfill its role as ASEAN Chair and to host ADMM and ADMM+ meetings, adding that the successful organization of these two events show solidarity and unity in ASEAN.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the defense ministers of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia discussed measures to strengthen solidarity, promote the traditional friendship between the three countries and defense cooperation.