Speaking at the event, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun emphasized that China - ASEAN defense cooperation has developed in a more practical and effective manner, contributing to maintaining security, stability, and development in the region. During the meeting, delegates reviewed the achievements and successful experience of China - ASEAN defense cooperation, shared common concerns, and proposed directions to strengthen and promote future defense collaboration.
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General Phan Van Giang attends the event. |
At the meeting, Vietnamese Defense Minister Phan Van Giang highlighted that ASEAN - China defense cooperation has been actively and effectively implemented over the past time. China has actively participated in ASEAN-led defense and security cooperation mechanisms, such as the ADMM-Plus and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), proposing various confidence-building and capacity-building activities with ASEAN member states. These include exchanges between ASEAN - China defense research institutions, ASEAN - China young officer exchanges, and initiatives under the ADMM-Plus Experts' Working Group. With its resources and experience, ASEAN is confident that China and Brunei will successfully co-chair the ADMM-Plus Experts' Working Group on Peacekeeping for the 2024-2027 period.
To strengthen the relationship in a more intensive and substantive manner to be on a par with the comprehensive strategic partnership, Gen. Giang suggested that both sides continue trust-building activities through maintaining high-level dialogues and consultations, as well as practical collaboration such as delegation exchanges and information sharing. The Vietnamese defense minister reaffirmed Vietnam's support for expanding ASEAN's direct communication infrastructure with partners, including China, a step consistent with the ADMM's external relations direction. This move aims to enhance trust, information sharing, and timely handling of emerging situations.
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Gen. Phan Van Giang meets with Sr. Lt. Gen. Dong Jun. |
Additionally, the Vietnamese defense leader emphasized the importance of maintaining exchanges between defense research institutions and young officers to strengthen mutual understanding and trust, contributing to the realization of cooperation goals for regional peace, stability, and resilience. He noted the ongoing efforts by ASEAN and China to advance negotiations on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the East Sea (South China Sea), reflecting goodwill and commitment to resolving regional issues collaboratively. He added that achieving a substantive, effective COC that aligns with international law, including the UNCLOS 1982, is essential.
On the same day, Gen. Phan Van Giang met with Senior Lieutenant General Dong Jun, during which both ministers agreed to strengthen defense cooperation and actualize the areas of collaboration agreed upon by the senior leaders of both countries, contributing to the healthy and stable development of the Vietnam - China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
Translated by Chung Anh