Defence ministers from Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia gathered in Phnom Penh on November 25 to solidify their defence cooperation in an effort to strengthen regional peace and security. Vietnamese Defence Minister General Phan Văn Giang expressed gratitude for the support from Laos and Cambodia in Vietnam’s past struggles for independence and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to furthering its strong, trusting relationship with both nations.

During the meeting, Lao Defence Minister General Chansamone Chanyalath emphasized the importance of the military in nurturing the trilateral friendship and solidarity, while Cambodia’s General Tea Seiha praised the effectiveness of their defence collaboration in bolstering border security and contributing to ASEAN's growth. The ministers agreed to focus on joint military training, exercises, and information sharing, with a particular focus on non-traditional security threats and regional stability.

In addition to the meeting, the ministers participated in a joint rescue exercise held in Kampong Chhnang province from November 18-25, which involved nearly 700 personnel. They also visited Tep Pranom high school, where the Vietnamese delegation donated 30 computers to support the school’s educational efforts.

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