Last week, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia, Lindsey Ford, concluded her diplomatic tour across Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines, engaging in critical defense discussions in each country.
Ford’s journey commenced in Vietnam at the Bien Hoa airfield, highlighting U.S. efforts in dioxin cleanup. In Hanoi, she explored defense trade expansion opportunities with the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council and U.S. industry leaders, following the elevation of the U.S.-Vietnam partnership.
In Thailand, Ford celebrated the successful collaboration on maritime security at the 20th ADMM-Plus EWG, transitioning co-chairmanship to Japan and the Philippines. Meetings with Thai defense officials focused on enhancing bilateral defense ties, including in modernization and cybersecurity, building on the momentum of the recent U.S.-Thailand strategic dialogue.
Ford’s itinerary concluded in the Philippines, where she advanced bilateral defense and security cooperation discussions, including maritime capabilities and safe, lawful maritime operations with senior Philippine military officials.
Ford’s tour underlines the U.S.’s commitment to reinforcing ties with Southeast Asian allies, contributing to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific. “These relationships are stronger than ever,” Ford stated, reflecting on the trip’s success in fostering regional peace and security.–Web Desk