Kuala lumpur: The Commanding General of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), Ronald Clark, emphasized the critical need for strengthening military cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region in response to increasing regional challenges. His remarks were made during the 14th Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference (IPACC) held in Kuala Lumpur from September 23-25. The event saw participation from 196 high-level delegations representing 27 countries.
According to Kuwait News Agency, General Clark highlighted that a collective will is fundamental for maintaining a free Indo-Pacific region. He affirmed that the IPACC conference exemplifies robust military cooperation among the participating nations. The conference agenda included discussions on a range of topics related to 21st-century military capabilities and joint military efforts to address both manmade and natural crises.
Major General Muhammad Hafizuddeain, the Chief of the Malaysian Army, also addressed the conference, noting the importance of a joint military vision aimed at reinforcing peace and regional stability. He discussed the development of mechanisms for international cooperation and the achievement of economic and industrial welfare through support for the defense industry and innovation. Major General Hafizuddeain emphasized that transforming military communication is now a necessity, and multinational training plays a crucial role in ensuring effective coordination in defense operations.
The IPACC conference included representatives from 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. Several functions were organized to enhance coordination among these nations, including a military demonstration by the Malaysian Army that showcased jungle warfare, survival tactics, and counter-insurgency measures.