The workshop aimed to create an understanding among participants on East Asian regional and sub-regional cooperation mechanisms in the changing context and implications for regional security and development. The perspectives and participation of key stakeholders were considered through presentations by experts Dr. Chong Chia Siong Alan and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kei Koga. The subsequent comments by Dr. Nghiem Tuan Hung and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Duy Dung provided a comprehensive picture of the current situation.
Current and future regional and sub-regional cooperation in the context of larger geopolitical projects (the Indo-Pacific Initiative, the Belt and Road Initiative) was also discussed. The concept of sub-regional cooperation, which is primarily driven by economic interests, was developed, and integrated into regional integration in East Asia. Cross-border cooperation at both regional and sub-regional levels is necessary to strengthen the flow of goods, services, investment capital and tourists. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dao Thanh Truong, Vice Rector of USSH, stated in his speech that regional and sub-regional cooperation is becoming one of the most important ways to promote economic integration and address traditional and non-traditional security challenges. In addition, Mr Florian Constantin Feyerabend, Resident Representative of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Vietnam shared the point that challenges of today stretch far beyond borders and can only be tackled by joint efforts. A broader conception of security beyond military security is needed in an interdependent world.
The workshop concluded with a discussion on "Critical Issues for the Water Food Energy Climate Nexus in Mekong Region". This problem served as an illustrative example to show the necessary cooperation and to discuss possible approaches for action. Ass. Prof. Dr. Carl Middleton introduced the topic and presented his knowledge of the problem. Dr. Nguyen Thi Thuy Tran commented on this, creating a comprehensive picture for all participants.
The workshop was a complete success and served as a first-class kick-off event.
