# ASEAN Secretary-General Meets Viet Nam Defense Minister on Regional Security Cooperation
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.
During the courtesy call at the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence, both sides underscored the critical importance of strengthening ASEAN defence mechanisms and explored collaborative approaches to address emerging security challenges in Southeast Asia.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing commitment to early preparations for the 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and the 13th ADMM-Plus, scheduled to take place later in 2026.
The Secretary-General and Minister Giang discussed the evolving security landscape in the region, with particular attention to maritime cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, and disaster response coordination. Both leaders emphasized that peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue remains essential for maintaining regional stability and upholding the ASEAN community vision.
The ASEAN Future Forum 2026, where these discussions took place, serves as a key platform for strategic dialogue among ASEAN member states.
General Phan Van Giang reaffirmed Viet Nam unwavering commitment to ASEAN centrality and its principled approach to regional security architecture.
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn expressed appreciation for Viet Nam proactive role in advancing ASEAN defence cooperation.
The meeting also touched upon bilateral defence cooperation between ASEAN institutions and Viet Nam, focusing on capacity-building programs and information-sharing mechanisms.
As ASEAN continues to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, the commitment from member states like Viet Nam provides confidence in the bloc ability to maintain peace and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
The Secretary-General visit comes at a crucial time when ASEAN member states are working to modernize their collective security posture.
As the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 draws to a close, the commitment from Viet Nam sends a positive signal to the international community about ASEAN resolve to remain a cornerstone of stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sources: asean.org
