During the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus, Rajnath Singh advocated for enhanced security cooperation to preserve regional resilience against emerging threats. Host Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. announced the signing of two milestone agreements celebrating historic regional treaties and defending ASEAN unity. Teodoro also urged participating countries to confront supply chain, food, and energy vulnerabilities. In addition, the forum highlighted the necessity of safeguarding vulnerable seafarers and migrant workers caught in global conflict zones.
Key points
India considers ASEAN centrality to be a vital cornerstone of its regional Indo-Pacific v…: India considers ASEAN centrality to be a vital cornerstone of its regional Indo-Pacific vision and Act East Policy.
Regional defense frameworks are prioritizing cooperation anchored in international law to…: Regional defense frameworks are prioritizing cooperation anchored in international law to effectively navigate emerging global disruptions.
Member defense establishments must address pressing security risks facing migrant workers…: Member defense establishments must address pressing security risks facing migrant workers, seafarers, and critical supply chains.
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India reiterates its unwavering commitment to ASEAN centrality
Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN centrality and called for stronger defence cooperation and mutual trust at the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines.“India reiterates its unwavering commitment to ASEAN centrality, which is a cornerstone of our Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision,” Singh said, expressing gratitude to the Philippines for hosting the meeting and extending warm hospitality.He said the forum was important for maintaining a resilient, secure and prosperous region, adding that the discussions should help address emerging disruptions and strengthen cooperation among participating countries.“I look forward to constructive deliberations and concrete outcomes from this meeting,” Singh said.
Philippine defence secretary Gilberto C Teodoro Jr, meanwhile, said two documents were signed at the ADMM the previous day — a joint statement commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia and the Manila Joint Declaration marking the 20th anniversary of the ADMM.Teodoro said the documents reaffirmed the participating countries’ commitment to shared principles, ASEAN unity and centrality.
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