The UK's steadfast commitment to Indo-Pacific security and
prosperity was underlined last week as Defence Minister The
visited Malaysia and
Thailand.
Visiting Kuala Lumpur, the Minister met with Chief of Defence
Force General Tan Sri Mohammad bin Ab Rahman and Deputy Defence
Minister YB Adly Zahari to discuss defence cooperation both
bilaterally and through the Five Power Defence Arrangements
(FPDA).
FPDA is in its 53rd year. Founded in 1971, the FPDA is a series
of agreements between Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore
and the UK, with the group seeking to work together to promote
stability in the region.
The Minister also met Deputy Secretary General (Policy) Mr Mohd
Yani in Daud, Chief of Navy Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob
and Director General National Security Council YM Raja Datuk
Nushirwan bin Zainal Abidinto.
Defence Security Asia Expo took place in Kuala Lumpur, and the
Minister visited the event to see some of the cutting-edge kit
being developed by UK companies on show. Minister Minto also
addressed the National Security International Seminar where he
spoke about the need for international alliances and clear rules
to protect our values.
In Thailand, The met with Thai Minister of
Defence Sutin Klungsang to discuss defence policy and strategy,
and areas where the UK and Thailand can work together. The also met with Chief of
Defence Forces General Songwit Noonpackdee and other military
chiefs.
UK Defence Minister The said:
It was a huge pleasure to visit Malaysia and Thailand last week
and discuss how we can continue to grow our defence cooperation.
The Indo-Pacific is critical to global prosperity and security,
and the UK will continue to work with partners including Malaysia
and Thailand to ensure the region remains free and open.
Reinforcing the UK's commitment to the region, the Royal Navy has
two ships operating in the Indo-Pacific – HMS Spey and HMS Tamar.
HMS Spey visited Thailand last year, shortly before Thai and UK
Forces partnered together during Exercise Panther Gold in July
2023. Next year, the UK's Carrier Strike Group will sail to
the region. UK Armed Forces take part in regular exercises with
Thailand and Malaysia.
In the face of increasing threats to global stability and
security, last month UK Prime Minister and Defence Secretary announced that the UK's
defence spending would increase to £87 billion by the end of the
decade – 2.5% GDP.
The Minister's visit affirms the UK's steadfast commitment to
work with the members of the Association of South East Asian
Nations (ASEAN) to secure a free, open and prosperous
Indo-Pacific region.
