Singapore Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Cooperation at ADMM Retreat

Dr. Ng Eng Hen attended the ADMM Retreat in Malaysia, discussing regional cooperation on security, particularly in artificial intelligence and underwater infrastructure. ASEAN Defence Ministers agreed on enhancing military awareness and capabilities in these areas. A joint statement on AI in defense was released, affirming the need for responsible usage. Dr. Ng emphasized ASEAN unity in addressing security challenges and reinforced bilateral relations with Malaysia and Thailand.

Dr. Ng Eng Hen, Singapore’s Minister for Defence, attended the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat in Penang, Malaysia. During this event, he and his counterparts engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing ASEAN unity and cooperation to address emerging security challenges. Dr. Ng emphasized the crucial role of regional collaboration, particularly in the domains of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Critical Underwater Infrastructure (CUI) security, to ensure the ADMM and ADMM-Plus stay relevant and proactive.

The ASEAN Defence Ministers concurred on the necessity for increased military awareness and capacity in safeguarding CUI due to its heightened vulnerability and critical significance. They expressed support for a discussion paper introduced by Singapore and Thailand, advocating for further cooperation among ASEAN militaries on CUI security, especially given their role in responding to disruptions.

A joint statement was issued, acknowledging the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ commitment to advancing cooperation in AI within the defence sector. This statement reflects ongoing efforts to assess the implications of AI in the region and emphasizes the need for promoting responsible and accountable use of AI in defense contexts.

Following the meeting, Dr. Ng reiterated the importance of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus as vital platforms for addressing regional security concerns through strategic dialogue. He stated, “There is greater need for ASEAN unity, solidarity, and centrality in dealing with both existing and emerging security challenges, particularly transnational ones.”

On the sidelines of the retreat, Dr. Ng met with Malaysia’s Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, reinforcing the enduring bilateral defense relations and discussing enhancements to cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterally. He also engaged with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, reaffirming Singapore and Thailand’s strong ties and exploring further defense collaboration.

In summary, the ADMM Retreat highlighted the significance of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges, particularly in areas such as AI and critical infrastructure. The discussions reflected a collective commitment among ASEAN Defence Ministers to enhance military preparedness and collaboration. Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen’s remarks underscored the need for unity within ASEAN to effectively confront evolving security threats while fostering bilateral ties with neighboring nations.

Original Source: www.mindef.gov.sg