The Department of National Defense (DND) convened the Ad Hoc ASEAN Defence Senior Officials’ Meeting Working Group via video conference on Monday, June 29, to firm up preparations for major ASEAN defense engagements this year.
DND Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Marita I. Yoro presided over the meeting as working group chair.
The discussions focused on key outcome documents, including the proposed joint declaration and statement expected to be adopted during the 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting and the 13th ADMM-Plus later this year.
The working group also noted ongoing efforts under the ASEAN Peacekeeping Centers Network, following the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ hosting of the 10th APCN Meeting from May 4 to 8.
The DND said the meeting reaffirmed ASEAN member states’ commitment to strengthen regional defense and security cooperation through practical collaboration and dialogue.