HANOI: Malaysia's chief of defence forces Jen Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman is on a three-day official visit to Vietnam from Aug 13-16, at the invitation of chief of the general staff of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) and Deputy Minister of National Defence Sen Lt Gen Nguyen Tan Cuong.
After an official welcome in Hanoi on Wednesday (Aug 14) both officers held talks, during which Cuong affirmed that the visit will create new momentum for cooperation between the two armies, and contribute actively to the two countries’ relations, for peace, cooperation, development and prosperity in the region and the world.
Cuong said defence cooperation between both countries had been encouraging following the Memorandum of Understanding between both governments which was signed in December 2023.
He took the occasion to invite Jen Mohammad and other leaders of the Malaysian army to attend the celebrations to mark the 80th founding anniversary of the VPA and the Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024, slated for December.
The Malaysian general said that his visit provided an opportunity for both sides to advance their cooperation in various fields in a practical and effective manner, and share common perspectives to further enhance collaboration in addressing security challenges, especially non-traditional security threats.
In the current context of complex and multifaceted global challenges, he said that both countries need to coordinate more closely.
At the talks, the two sides exchanged views on global and regional issues of mutual concern, and highly appreciated Asean's important role in shaping and maintaining the regional security architecture, as well as promoting substantive cooperation among member states and between Asean and its partners.
Regarding maritime issues, Cuong emphasised that Vietnam is committed to maintaining peace, stability, security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight.
He said the country hoped to solve all disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law. — Vietnam News/ANN
