KUALA LUMPUR: Japan has proposed two new cooperation frameworks with Asean to enhance regional defence collaboration and strengthen joint capabilities in maritime security and humanitarian disaster operations, says Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said the initiatives — the Japan-Asean Ministerial Initiative for Enhanced Defence Cooperation (Jasmin) and the One Cooperative Effort Among Nations (Ocean) — were introduced during the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Kuala Lumpur.
“Japan announced its proposals to further develop the defence capabilities of Asean countries, particularly in areas such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maritime security.
“We welcome Japan’s proposals on these matters,” he told a press conference.
Khaled said the initiatives reflected Japan’s continued commitment to working closely with Asean in maintaining regional peace and stability through practical and transparent cooperation.
He added that the meeting allowed both member and partner nations to speak candidly about their respective positions, fostering greater understanding and trust among participants despite their differences.
“I do not deny that there were differences among members during the meeting, but what was encouraging was the honesty and sincerity with which everyone expressed their views.
“Through this, we can recognise our differing perspectives and accept that we face challenges and concerns that cannot be ignored.
“These differences should not be denied, but rather managed constructively. This is precisely why ADMM-Plus remains relevant and necessary,” he said.
Khaled reaffirmed that the meeting underscored the importance of maintaining unity of purpose and sustained engagement to strengthen peace, stability, and mutual understanding in the region.
“The most important outcome is that all parties agreed on the need to continue working together and enhancing cooperation to manage our differences in a constructive manner,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
