ASEAN defence ministers firmly reject nuclear weapons testing and uphold the region as a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality
KUALA LUMPUR: ASEAN remains steadfast in upholding the region as a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality and firmly rejects any action that could threaten global security, including nuclear weapons testing.
Malaysian Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that ASEAN is a zone of peace and is free from nuclear weapons and always strives to avoid anything that could bring harm to humanity.
He emphasised that within the ASEAN region, it is their principle to maintain a peaceful and nuclear-free zone.
Mohamed Khaled made these remarks when asked about United States President Donald Trump’s announcement of the immediate start of new nuclear weapons tests, citing similar testing programmes in other countries.
The minister also touched on ASEAN’s informal meetings with India and Timor-Leste held on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting, highlighting the strengthening of regional cooperation.
He stated that ASEAN views India as a key partner with great potential to deepen collaboration, particularly in areas of science, technology, and innovation.
Mohamed Khaled noted that India may not be seen in the same context as major military powers such as China or the United States, but it is a leading nation in science, technology, and innovation.
He explained that these are areas where India can drive new cooperation in its relationship with ASEAN.
According to Mohamed Khaled, both sides agreed to explore future cooperation in maritime security, cyber defence, defence industry innovation, policy dialogue, technology transfer, think-tank collaboration, and talent development for the next generation.
In a separate session, ASEAN also welcomed Timor-Leste’s growing role within the regional bloc, especially in the field of defence and security capacity-building.
The minister expressed that they welcome Timor-Leste’s participation in ASEAN and will help facilitate its integration into ASEAN and the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting framework.
He added that this will allow Timor-Leste to join them in promoting peace and security in the region.
Mohamed Khaled clarified that ASEAN does not expect Timor-Leste to immediately operate at the same level as other long-standing members but will continue to assist through training and joint exercises according to its readiness.
He stressed that what is important is for Timor-Leste to seize opportunities to participate and build understanding, networks, and most importantly, trust, because trust is the foundation of lasting cooperation. – Bernama
