Thai Defense Ministry announces results of ASEAN level meeting

Defense Ministry announces results of ASEAN level meeting



BANGKOK, 26 May 2016 (NNT) – The Ministry of Defense has reported on the results of a regional Defense Ministers meeting that took place earlier this month.

Following the 10th Defense Ministers meeting that took place yesterday, Thai Defense Ministry spokesperson Maj Gen Kongcheep Tantrawanich reported that Thai Defense Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwan attended the regional level assembly in Lao PDR to exchange views on security issues both at the regional and international level.

The meeting concluded by affirming threats persisting against the entire region continue to be terrorism, cyber crimes, narcotics, maritime crimes, weapons trading and natural disasters.

The ministers were of the view that the complex issues of the region needed cooperation from all involved countries to ensure prompt and efficient response in times of crisis. They agreed that understanding and trust had to be fostered among the nations of Southeast Asia and greater adherence to treaties and international law would allow for good crisis management. They also affirmed that intervention from outside of the region was unneeded.

Gen Prawit asserted Thailand’s continued support for ASEAN to move forward as a unified bloc, calling on all to trust in one another and to work cohesively. He stated the Kingdom wants greater connectivity throughout the region in all aspects.

The summit lauded Thailand for initiating an ASEAN Medical Center and holding joint training for military medics so that they can respond to natural disasters. The meeting ended with the ministers signing a declaration that further clarified the medical center’s roles and framework.


-- NNT 2016-05-26