VIENTIANE - Representatives from member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for the 21st ASEAN Chiefs of Defense Forces Meeting met here to discuss key issues affecting regional security and defense cooperation.

ALSO READ: Sino-ASEAN partnership vital for regional stability and prosperity

Speaking at the meeting on Thursday, Lao Deputy Minister of National Defense and Chief of the General Staff of the Lao People's Army Khamlieng Outhakaysone expressed his gratitude to all the ASEAN member states and the ASEAN Secretariat for their support and contributions, praising their dedication to ensuring the success of this year's meeting, the local Pasaxon newspaper reported on Thursday.

During the meeting, the participants exchanged views on the current regional security landscape and discussed ways to enhance defense cooperation, aiming to build mutual trust, capabilities, and preparedness to address challenges to regional stability.

READ MORE: ASEAN stands as model of regional ties, solidarity, says Cambodian foreign minister

The discussions underscored the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and unity within ASEAN through collaborative efforts.