USARPAC stresses importance of Indo-Pacific military coop. amid growing challenges

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (KUNA) -- The Commanding General of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), Ronald Clark, stressed on Thursday the importance of solidifying military cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region amid growing regional challenges.
This statement came during the 14th Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference (IPACC) held in Kuala Lumpur on September 23-25 with the participation of 196 high-level delegations from 27 countries.
General Clark said that collective will was an essential guarantee for a free Indo-Pacific region, affirming that the IPACC conference reflected strong military cooperation among participants.
He pointed out that a wide range of topics were discussed pertaining to 21st century military capabilities and joint military cooperation to address against crises whether manmade or natural.
For his part, Major General Muhammad Hafizuddeain, the Chief of the Malaysian Army, said that IPACC discussed joint a military vision based on criteria of reinforcing peace and regional stability, building mechanisms for international cooperation, achieving economic and industrial welfare via supporting the defensive industry and creativity.
Transforming military communication became a necessity, he added, stressing that multinational training was an important aspect in ensuring tight coordination within defense.
The IPACC saw the participation of Malaysia, the US, Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Fiji, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Maldives, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, the UK, Vanuatu, and Vietnam.
IPACC included several functions aimed at boost coordination among participating nations.
A military demonstration was carried out by the Malaysian Army simulating jungle warfare, survival tactics, and counter-insurgency measures. (end) aab.gta