(VOVworld) - Minister of National Defense, General Phung Quang Thanh, is attending the US-ASEAN Defense Forum in Honolulu, Hawaii, from April 1-3. The forum, the first of its kind in the US, provides an opportunity for ASEAN defense ministers to talk with US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and exchange views on initiatives to promote a safe, dynamic and peaceful future for the Asia-Pacific region, particularly Southeast Asia. Strengthening defense building between the US and ASEAN in rescue work and in dealing with the consequences of natural disasters were major topics of discussion at the forum. During their stay, the defense ministers are scheduled to visit US defense facilities in Honolulu.