ASEAN air force leaders agree to boost regional security

ASEAN air force leaders agree to boost regional security

2011-06-16 09:42:01 GMT+7 (ICT)

JAKARTA, INDONESIA (BNO NEWS) -- In order to increase security measures and stability in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) area, air force chiefs from the region on Wednesday agreed to strengthen its cooperation.

During the 8th Conference of ASEAN Air Force Chiefs of Staff, which was carried out in Huan Hin, Thailand, regional leaders agreed to improve their air forces capabilities for both combat and non-combat military operations, Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Imam Sufaat told the local Antara news agency.

ASEAN, which was formed on August 8, 1967, has ten member countries which are Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. Its main aim is to accelerate economic growth, social process, and the protection of the peace and stability of the region.

Wednesday's agreement was made to boost regional stability as part of the member states' common goal to establish ASEAN Community within four years. In addition, Imam said the air force chiefs discussed increasing cooperation in humanitarian efforts and natural disaster management, as leaders also discussed the importance of communication among air forces and sharing experiences.

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