KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 — The US today expressed its support for Asean countries in facing regional challenges, particularly in the South China Sea, during an informal session with Asean defence ministers, according to Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
Khaled said the commitment was conveyed during the Asean–United States Defence Ministers’ Hi-Tea, held after the 12th Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Kuala Lumpur.
“The United States explained very clearly its approach — the concept of peace through strength,” Khaled said at a press conference here.
“Without strength, peace cannot be achieved, and we understand that,” he added.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth (centre) attends the 12th Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur today. — Picture by Firdaus Latif
He said Washington offered its support to help ensure that Asean member states are able to confront various challenges, especially those related to the South China Sea.
“America has offered support to ensure that Asean countries are capable of facing various challenges, particularly those we face in the South China Sea,” he said.
However, Khaled stressed that any cooperation with the US must remain within the Asean-led framework and guided by the region’s long-standing principles.
“We do not deny the challenges we face in the South China Sea. We welcome America’s commitment to help, but it must be based on the principles I mentioned,” he said.
The hi-tea session took place shortly after the conclusion of the ADMM-Plus, which gathered defence ministers from Asean and its eight dialogue partners — including the US, China, Japan, India, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Russia.
