First ASEAN Defense Interaction Program opens in Brunei

The First ASEAN Defense Interaction Program (ADIP) has been held in Brunei Darussalam, according a press release posted on the Defense Ministry's website on Thursday.

According to the release, the ADIP is aimed at strengthening regional unity and identity among ASEAN defense establishments through respect for diversity, equality and mutual understanding.

Permanent Secretary (Defense Policy and Development) Colonel ( Rtd) Pg Dato Paduka Haji Azmansham bin Pg Haji Mohamad said at the opening the program on Wednesday that the basis of regional integration lies in the connectivity of its people, the Defense Ministry said.

Furthermore, he emphasized the fundamental value of people-to- people interactions as an important driver in strengthening cooperation among the ASEAN member states.

The inaugural of ADIP brings together more than 20 junior level defense and military officials from the ASEAN region in a two day program which includes a roundtable discussion on regional cooperation in the areas of defense and security.

The concept of ADIP was adopted by the ASEAN Defense Ministers during the seventh meeting in Brunei in May 2013.