Islamabad — The ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI) paid a joint courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister for Defence of Pakistan, to discuss avenues for strengthening defence cooperation between ASEAN and Pakistan, as well as to exchange views on regional and global security developments.
During the meeting, both sides underscored the importance of enhanced engagement between Pakistan and ASEAN in addressing shared security challenges. The discussions reflected a mutual commitment to deepening dialogue and cooperation in support of regional and international peace and stability.
Opportunities for Collaboration
The Federal Minister and the ASEAN Committee recognised the significant potential for cooperation in key areas of defence and international security, which form a cornerstone of ASEAN–Pakistan relations. Priority areas identified for future collaboration included maritime security, cybersecurity, intelligence-sharing, peacekeeping operations, and cooperation in the defence industry.
Next Steps
To advance these objectives, the Federal Minister proposed the establishment of a structured mechanism to ensure regular interaction between Pakistan’s Ministry of Defence and the Embassies of ASEAN Member States in Islamabad. This proposed platform would facilitate sustained dialogue, promote confidence-building, and explore concrete initiatives for enhanced security cooperation.
Both sides welcomed the proposal and expressed their commitment to maintaining close engagement to further strengthen ASEAN–Pakistan defence and security ties.
BY: The Times Union
