ASEAN, EU to intensify maritime cooperation

MANILA -- Member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union (EU) have agreed to take steps to improve sharing of information and surveillance, as they cooperate at the bilateral and regional levels on maritime security.  

They welcomed the successful outcome of the fourth EU-ASEAN High Level Dialogue (HLD) on Maritime Security Cooperation which was held here this week.

In a joint press statement, ASEAN and EU said they will also cooperate in conducting law enforcement at sea, and developing efficient, secure, and environmentally-friendly ports.

On the regional level, the two regional blocs will work on enhancing marine environmental management, preventing escalation of conflicts in disputed waters, and establishing joint resource development mechanisms.

“The Dialogue concluded that ASEAN-EU cooperation on maritime security will bring about mutual benefit for ASEAN and EU Member States and contribute in a constructive way to the maintenance of peace and good order at sea,” they said.

The two sides aim to promote and facilitate the implementation of the ASEAN-EU Plan of Action ‎2018-2022, particularly on maritime security which encourages close cooperation between them to address maritime-related issues in a comprehensive manner. (PNA)