Vietnamese Minister of National Defense Ngo Xuan Lich reiterated the importance of solving disputes via peaceful measures during his speech at the 18th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Sunday.

All relevant parties should resolve their disagreements in an amicable atmosphere, showing their partnership spirit and responsibility for the community, Minister Lich said at the fifth plenary session of the summit, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

The minister made the suggestions against the backdrop of security challenges and complicated issues facing the Asia-Pacific region.

He emphasized that conflicts would lead to unexpected consequences and affect not only relevant countries but also the entire region and the world. 

Competition for strategic interests in Asia-Pacific is getting fiercer as the region has become more attractive thanks to its strategic and geographical location, Lich added. 

The competition is taking place at both regional and global levels, and in various spheres, from politics and diplomacy to economic matters, trade, natural resources, and environmental protection regarding both traditional and non-traditional challenges, he elaborated.

The minister highlighted Vietnam’s efforts to integrate into the international community, enhance relationship with other countries, and protect regional and global peace, stability, and security.

Regarding situations in the East Vietnam Sea, Lich urged all parties to abide by international law and show their responsibility and goodwill to build a maritime area of peace, cooperation, and development. 

Vietnam hopes that relevant parties will enhance dialogues and consultations, and work together to manage risks and prevent conflicts. 

Regional cooperative mechanisms led by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), along with such mechanisms as the Shangri-La Dialogue, Beijing Xiangshan Forum, and Moscow Conference on International Security, have significantly contributed to the prevention of conflicts, Linh stressed.

The Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia's annual premier defense summit, is a unique meeting where ministers debate the region’s most pressing security challenges, engage in important bilateral talks, and come up with fresh solutions together.

This year’s summit took place from May 31 to June 2.

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