Ha Noi, Viet Nam – June 10, 2026 – ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn held strategic discussions with H.E. General Phan Van Giang, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Future Forum 2026, emphasizing deeper regional defense cooperation.
The meeting took place during the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 in Ha Noi, where senior officials from across the region gathered to discuss the future direction of ASEAN cooperation. The bilateral discussion focused on strengthening defense cooperation within the ASEAN framework and addressing shared security challenges in the region.
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn commended Viet Nam for its active contributions to ASEAN defense cooperation mechanisms, including its role in peacekeeping operations and capacity-building initiatives. He noted that Viet Nam has been a key driver in advancing practical defense cooperation among ASEAN member states.
The two sides exchanged views on regional security developments, including maritime security, counterterrorism efforts, and disaster response coordination. They agreed that ASEAN centrality remains essential in maintaining peace and stability in the region, particularly amid growing geopolitical complexities.
General Phan Van Giang reaffirmed Viet Nam commitment to ASEAN defense cooperation and expressed support for the Secretary General vision of a more integrated and resilient ASEAN community. He highlighted Viet Nam contributions to the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and the ADMM-Plus framework.
The meeting also touched on the importance of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) as a guiding framework for regional cooperation. Both sides agreed that the AOIP provides a constructive approach to engaging with all partners in the region.
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn emphasized that defense cooperation is a critical pillar of the ASEAN Community building process and urged member states to continue working together to address both traditional and non-traditional security challenges.
The ASEAN Future Forum 2026, held from June 9-10 in Ha Noi, brought together policymakers, academics, and stakeholders from across the region to discuss the future of ASEAN cooperation in various sectors including security, economy, and sustainable development.
Sources: Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Image Source: Association of Southeast Asian Nations
