14th ADMM-Plus Experts Working Group on Counter-Terrorism

The 14th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts Working Group (EWG) on Counter-Terrorism will take place in New Delhi on March 19-20, 2025. India and Malaysia will co-chair this meeting. This is the first time India will co-chair the EWG on Counter-Terrorism.

Background of ADMM-Plus

The ADMM-Plus is a security platform that includes ASEAN members and its eight dialogue partners. Established in 2010, it focuses on enhancing security cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. The platform promotes stability and peace through dialogue and collaboration. Focuses on seven areas:

1. Counter-Terrorism
2. Maritime Security
3. Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Management
4. Peacekeeping Operations
5. Military Medicine
6. Humanitarian Mine Action
7. Cyber Security

Role of EWGs

• Each EWG is co-chaired for 3 years (one ASEAN country + one dialogue partner).
• Co-chairs define objectives, policies, and guidelines for their cycle.
• At least two meetings per year and one practical exercise in the final year.

Participants

• 10 ASEAN members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, and Thailand.
• 8 dialogue partners: Australia, New Zealand, South Korea (RoK), Japan, China, USA, and Russia.
• Others: Timor Leste and the ASEAN Secretariat.

Objectives of ADMM-Plus

The ADMM-Plus has several objectives. It aims to build capacity among ASEAN member states to tackle shared security challenges. The platform promotes mutual trust and transparency among defence establishments. It also seeks to enhance regional peace and stability through collaborative efforts.

Purpose of the Conclave

The primary goal of the conclave was to strengthen counter-terrorism strategies among member states. It aimed to share experiences and establish a robust framework for cooperation. The discussions also addressed the evolving security landscape in the region.

Focus Areas of Discussion

The discussions revolved around several key areas. These included counter-terrorism, maritime security, peacekeeping operations, humanitarian mine action, and cyber security. The EWG aimed to create a strategic plan for activities from 2024 to 2027.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2025

Category: Defence Current Affairs