(VOVworld) – Vietnam contributed several initiatives to the 9^th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM-9), towards building an ASEAN Political-Security Community. Defence Minister General Phung Quang Thanh told a press conference following the ADMM-9 in Malaysia that Vietnam had highlighted the importance of honesty and responsibility among member countries in ensuring and maintaining peace, stability, security, and safety in the region. Countries should consider the ASEAN Community’s security their own national security.

Defence Minister, General Phung Quang Thanh and the Vietnamese delegates at the ADMM-9 (photo: Ministry of National Defence)

Mr. Thanh said Vietnam stressed the need to continue strengthening ASEAN’s common stance on the restraint of force and settling disputes through peaceful measures in conformity with the United Nations Charter and international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Vietnam also emphasised the importance of strengthening the ADMM’s role through providing comprehensive security, ultimately enhancing the efficiency of ADMM activities.

At the event, Vietnam proposed to improve bilateral defence among members by implementing trust-building measures, strengthening consultations, sharing information, and facilitating high-level meetings and joint activities among armies.
To mark the 10^th anniversary of the ADMM, Vietnam suggested a review of ADMM operations and orientations for the next decade. Vietnam also proposed to form a mechanism to respond promptly to non-traditional security challenges which threatened the safety and development of the community.

Regarding maritime security, Vietnam proposed to host an ASEAN conference on anti-piracy later this year.