Today at the 20th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn delivered remarks at the Simultaneous Special Session on the issue of “Balancing Asia-Pacific Minilateralism and ASEAN Centrality”.
Dr Kao underscored the importance of ASEAN Centrality in the regional architecture and how sub-regional arrangements complement ASEAN-led regional mechanisms. He stressed that ASEAN engages all its partners through its inclusive brand of multilateralism which is ASEAN modus operandi. He highlighted how ASEAN is a centripetal force in promoting unity among the ASEAN Member States and cooperation among and with ASEAN external partners. He also highlighted the benefits and inclusive nature of cooperation under the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, particularly in pursuing projects and activities under the four areas of cooperation.
Earlier, Dr Kao attended a Ministerial Roundtable hosted by Minister of Defence of Singapore Ng Eng Hen. The ministers exchanged views on the latest pressing regional and global issues.
Source : Asean