KPL
The 21st ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting (ACDFM) concluded on September 7, 2024, in Vientiane, Lao PDR, achieving significant outcomes under the theme, "ASEAN: Together for Peace, Security and Resilience." The event brought together Chiefs of Defence Forces from the 10 ASEAN member countries, and Timor-Leste as an observer.
(KPL) The 21st ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting (ACDFM) concluded on September 7, 2024, in Vientiane, Lao PDR, achieving significant outcomes under the theme, "ASEAN: Together for Peace, Security and Resilience." The event brought together Chiefs of Defence Forces from the 10 ASEAN member countries, and Timor-Leste as an observer.
The meeting was chaired by Lt. Gen. Khamlieng Outhakaysone, Deputy Minister of National Defense and Chief of the General Staff of the Lao People’s Army.
In his remarks, he highlighted the success of the discussions, which focused on key issues affecting regional security and defense cooperation. Among the key topics were the results of the 21st ASEAN Military Intelligence Meeting (AMIM) and the 14th ASEAN Military Operations Meeting (AMOM).
The Chiefs of Defence Forces also exchanged views on the current regional security landscape and discussed ways to enhance defense cooperation, aiming to build mutual trust, capabilities, and preparedness to address challenges to regional stability.
The discussions underscored the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and unity within ASEAN through collaborative efforts.
The meeting also adopted the ASEAN defence forces' two-year work plan for 2024-2026. This plan encompasses a range of activities, including future ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meetings, ASEAN-Plus cooperation initiatives, and ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meetings. Additionally, the participants reviewed and signed a joint statement, solidifying the commitment to continued defense collaboration among ASEAN members.
As part of the proceedings, the Lao People’s Army officially handed over the chairmanship of the 22nd ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting, the 22nd ASEAN Military Intelligence Meeting, and the 15th ASEAN Military Operations Meeting to Malaysia, which will host these meetings in 2025.
Lt. Gen. Khamlieng expressed his gratitude to all the ASEAN member states and the ASEAN Secretariat for their support and contributions, praising their dedication to ensuring the success of this year’s meeting. He also acknowledged the active participation of Timor-Leste as an observer.
KPL