Asean to launch hotline to connect defence ministers
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A HOTLINE for defence ministers of Asean countries will be launched this year, Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has announced.
The announcement was made Wednesday by the Sultan, who is also the defence minister and supreme commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), during the 55th RBAF anniversary celebrations at the Defence Academy, Tanah Jambu.
Also known as Direct Communications Link (DCL), the hotline will enable defence ministers of the 10-nation bloc to communicate directly and arrive at mutual decisions in handling crises.
The Sultan initially broached the hotline proposal during Brunei’s chairmanship of Asean in 2013, seeking to defuse misunderstandings, prevent unintended incidents and promote rapid response to emergency situations, particularly in maritime security.
The monarch previously said the DCL, which was subsequently taken up under the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) framework, will further help to build trust and confidence.
Commenting on the sultanate’s active participation, the Sultan said it is a sign of their commitment and capability in strengthening the country’s position in the midst of a dynamic security landscape.
The Sultan further noted that Brunei is able to contribute to regional security as well as provide a platform for a wide range of defence and military cooperation despite being a small country.
