Viet Nam attends 23rd ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting
VGP - Deputy Minister of National Defense Nguyen Tan Cuong participated in the 23rd ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting (ACDFM-23), which was held virtually on May 21.
Deputy Minister of National Defense Nguyen Tan Cuong attends the 23rd ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting (ACDFM-23), May 21, 2026 - Photo: VNA
Chaired by Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., the meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of ASEAN member states to strengthening mutual trust, enhancing joint action capabilities, and promoting peace and stability in the region, while also reinforcing ASEAN's solidarity and collective resolve amid evolving regional and global challenges.
Addressing the event, Deputy Minister of National Defense Nguyen Tan Cuong called on ASEAN to continue to strengthen ASEAN solidarity and centrality in the regional security architecture while enhancing strategic trust-building among the defense forces of member states.
He underscored the need to promote substantive cooperation in responding to non-traditional security challenges, explore the possibility to foster stronger ties in emerging technology fields and boosting education, training, and exchanges among ASEAN militaries, especially young officers.
Nguyen affirmed, as an active and responsible member of ASEAN and the international community, the Viet Nam People's Army will continue contributing to the building of a united, proactive, adaptive, and future-ready ASEAN.
Regarding the East Sea issue, Viet Nam consistently upholds the principle of resolving disputes and differences via peaceful means, on the basis of respect for the independence, sovereignty, and legitimate interests of nations, in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Viet Nam advocates the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and welcomes efforts by all parties to conclude negotiations and sign a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in line with international law, particularly UNCLOS 1982, stated the official.
By the end of 2026, Viet Nam will host the third International Defence Expo and the ASEAN Army Men's Volleyball Tournament, he shared, adding that the Viet Nam People's Army hopes to receive ASEAN member states at these important events to strengthen solidarity and friendship.
The two-year action plan for ASEAN militaries, as well as the Joint Declaration entitled 'Together Securing Our Future' were approved.
At the conclusion of the conference, the Philippines handed over the chairmanship of the ACDFM-24 to Singapore./.
