Major General Le Quang Dao, Commander of the Vietnam Coast Guard (centre), speaks at the meeting (Photo: www.qdnd.vn)Hanoi (VNA) - The 17th edition of the Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM-17) took place via videoconference on December 8 under the chair of Major General Le Quang Dao, Commander of the Vietnam Coast Guard. This is the first time that a HACGAM has been held virtually due to the complicated developments of COVID-19, in order to promptly discuss cooperation measures among law enforcement forces in Asia and maintain continuity of the HACGAM. Maj. Gen. Dao said that cooperation in addressing non-traditional security threats and emerging challenges in the ocean requires stronger collaboration between countries in ensuring maritime security and safety. The Vietnam Coast Guard always supports and stands ready to take part in cooperation fields in the region to ensure maritime security and safety for the sake of peace, stability and development, he affirmed. At the meeting, delegates were informed of the implementation of law enforcement activities at sea this year and cooperation orientations in 2022. They discussed and approved the French Coast Guard’s membership to the HACGAM. The Indian Coast Guard delivered a presentation on HACGAM’s website at the event. Delegates adopted a joint statement which reaffirmed commitments on further efforts, contributions and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in Asia to realise HACGAM’s shared goals./.