Asia-Pacific ministers have recognised the need for parties concernedto take concrete steps to deescalate current tensions to maintain peaceand stability in the region.

Singapore DefenceMinister Ng Eng Hen on May 31 hosted a luncheon for 21 visitingministers and their representatives attending the 13th Shangri-LaDialogue, providing a valuable platform for them to engage in informaland frank discussions on current security and defence issues, accordingto the Press Centre of the Singapore Government.

Theministers held a wide-ranging discussion on key security challengesfacing the region, including the ongoing maritime disputes andoverlapping territorial claims in the East Sea and East China Sea,as well as the situation on the Korean Peninsula .

They also discussed developments beyond the region, such as the current situation in Ukraine.

The ministers acknowledged that these challenges will require acommitment of all parties concerned to resolve their differences in apeaceful manner. They agreed that a country’s actions and behavioursshould be underpinned by a set of established principles, norms andinternational law.

They further recognised theimportance of open and inclusive regional frameworks such as the ASEANDefence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM+) as they will promote dialogue aswell as build strategic trust through practical cooperation.

Theyalso described the Shangri-La Dialogue as a key platform in generatingpositive and frank discussions on topical security issues amongstcountries from within and outside the region.-VNA