Vietnam, Thailand hold 8th security conference

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Security and defence relations between the two countries are longstanding, well-entrenched and highly successful, said Deputy Minister Nam, noting that this relationship reflects a unique friendship, underpinned by common values and close economic interdependence that has evolved over the course of the last century.

In a speech at the eighth Joint Working Group on Political-Security Cooperation conference, the Deputy Minister said, the two nations are committed to strengthening the security of the border by working cooperatively.

Specifically, the two nations security ministries aim to address security threats early; facilitate trade, economic growth and jobs; integrate cross-border law enforcement; and bolster critical infrastructure and cyber-security.

Some of the issues they plan to collaborate on in the near term include installing hotlines between the two navies to timely deal with issues arising at sea and taking joint action to combat illegal fishing.

They also have agreed to work jointly in developing and sustainably managing the use of Mekong River water resources in line with international rules while ensuring legitimate rights of the Greater Mekong Subregion.

As it relates to the East Sea territorial dispute, the two sides have agreed they will maintain their common stance that issues must be resolved in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982.