ADMM-Plus defence ministers reaffirm commitment to regional peace and stability

KUALA LUMPUR: Defence ministers from Asean and its eight dialogue partners have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining and promoting peace, security and stability under the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) framework.

They also pledged to uphold prosperity, safety, and the freedom of navigation and overflight as part of their collective efforts to strengthen regional security cooperation.

In a joint statement, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the continued relevance of the ADMM-Plus beyond 2025 by adapting to emerging, increasingly complex and interconnected security challenges, while maintaining their dedication to regional stability and cooperation.

The ministers commended 15 years of practical cooperation through the ADMM-Plus framework and applauded its contributions towards implementing the Asean Political-Security Community (APSC) Blueprint under the Asean Community Vision 2025.

They also reaffirmed the importance of mutual respect for independence, sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity and national identity, while exercising self-restraint in the conduct of activities and avoiding actions that may further complicate the situation.

The ministers reiterated their commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

They also pledged to enhance practical cooperation and solidify the ADMM-Plus as a platform for tangible action through the effective implementation of the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Groups (EWGs), to promote closer cooperation among defence establishments in addressing common regional security challenges.

The ministers further pledged to strengthen information-sharing and ensure timely, effective communication among ADMM-Plus countries, including through the Asean Direct Communications Infrastructure (ADI), to enhance confidence-building measures in the region.

They also emphasised inclusivity and multilateral engagement by maintaining an open and inclusive ADMM-Plus through the ADMM-Plus EWG Observership Programme, ensuring the framework can adapt to evolving dynamics and security challenges, incorporate diverse perspectives, and reinforce its legitimacy and appeal as a key multilateral platform.

The meeting also expressed support for Asean’s efforts in implementing the APSC Strategic Plan under the Asean Community Vision 2045, which aims to realise a resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centred Asean by 2045, while promoting regional peace, stability and prosperity.

Earlier, the ADMM-Plus meeting concluded with Malaysia officially handing over the chairmanship of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus to the Philippines, marking the end of the 19th ADMM and 12th ADMM-Plus held here.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said he was proud of Malaysia’s achievements throughout its chairmanship, describing the meetings as productive and beyond expectations.

This year’s events brought together 603 delegates from 19 nations, including Asean member states and dialogue partners — the United States, China, South Korea, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and India.

Khaled said Malaysia’s leadership reflected not only progress in policy and defence cooperation, but also strengthened friendship and unity among Asean nations.

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

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