KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 31 — Asean values and appreciates China‘s continuous support in ensuring the region remains secure and peaceful, while respecting sovereignty and embracing collaboration, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said today.
Khaled, who hosted the gathering, said peace and prosperity in South-east Asia are interlinked and must be safeguarded collectively.
“Prosperity and security are inseparable and interdependent. With regional peace comes shared prosperity, and with shared prosperity come respect, trust, and the enduring relationships that make lasting peace possible,” he said in his opening remarks during the Asean–China Defence Ministers’ Luncheon here.
Khaled described the luncheon as a celebration of dialogue, trust and meaningful partnership between Asean and China, adding that a secure Southeast Asia benefits all, including China, which sits at the heart of global commerce and connectivity.
He said Asean views China not only as a significant partner, but as a “critical promoter of global prosperity” through its various international initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilisation Initiative, and Global Governance Initiative.
However, Khaled also reminded that such a role comes with responsibilities that go beyond economic growth.
“Asean hopes that China, in this role, will continue to uphold international law, promote mediation, and help prevent conflicts before they arise,” he said, expressing confidence that both sides can turn challenges into opportunities through dialogue and mutual respect.
The luncheon, held on the sidelines of the 19th Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), was attended by China’s Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun and Asean counterparts.
Both the ADMM and the ADMM-Plus are being held from October 30 to November 2 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
