Promoting ADMM Plus cooperation toward comprehensive regional integration

General Ngo Xuan Lich, Minister of National Defence speaks at the 10th Anniversary of the Founding of ADMM-Plus in Hanoi

The Vietnam Ministry of National Defence on December 10 solemnly held the 10th Anniversary of the Founding of ADMM-Plus in Hanoi, with General Ngo Xuan Lich, Minister of National Defence hosting the event.

Those in attendance included leaders of Ministry of National Defence, the General Staff and the General Political Department, ambassadors, Defence Attaches, the Head of Mission of the EU and the UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam, among others.

Notably, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc sent his message to the ceremony.

Upon addressing the event, General Ngo Xuan Lich briefed on the establishment, development and the achievements of ADMM-Plus over the past 10 years, while affirming the role of ADMM-Plus for peace, stability, enhancement of mutual trust and understanding amongst members and the promotion of cooperation and development in the region.

"Since the inauguration of ADMM-Plus in 2010 in Hanoi, ADMM-Plus has constantly developed. The achievements of ADMM-Plus cooperation have played an increasingly important role for peace, stability, mutual trust and understanding in the region, thus creating an important foundation for ASEAN to further its comprehensive regional integration in the next stage".

"One of the most significant contributions of Vietnam and an important milestone in ASEAN history is the establishment of ADMM-Plus in 2010 in Hanoi, marking the formation of a defence – security cooperation mechanism with a view to fostering peace, stability and development in the region through dialogues as well as defence – security practical cooperation, and building capability in response to the common challenges in the region,” Lich said.

As an active, proactive, and responsible member of ASEAN as well as ADMM-Plus, the country will redouble efforts, together with ASEAN and ASEAN’s friends and partners, especially Plus countries, to make contributions to regional peace, stability, cooperation and development, he added.

The 10th Anniversary of the Founding of ADMM-Plus is one of the outstanding and prominent events in the country’s 2020 ASEAN Chairmanship. Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, all the conferences and meetings had to be virtually conducted.

Despite the differences in time zones, defence ministers of 18 ADMM-Plus members and invited guests fully attended the meeting, showing the great responsibility of strong determination of ASEAN member states. This has also demonstrated the keen interest and support of all the ADMM-Plus members for Vietnam in its role as ASEAN Chair 2020.