US, ASEAN defense leaders commit to expanded training programs

DEFENSE chiefs of the United States and of members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have committed to working together for more training opportunities — from fellowships for emerging leaders to expanded regional maritime law enforcement programs.

Austin met with Southeast Asian defense leaders on the sidelines of the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore recently.

They discussed “priorities for expanding cooperation in support of regional stability, security, and prosperity” after the U.S.ASEAN relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership last year. This means enhancing programs in areas like trade, the maritime sector, and addressing transnational crimes.

“[Austin] emphasized the vital role the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)Plus continues to play in driving multilateral cooperation to address regional challenges,” a readout from the U.S. Department of Defense said.