The future development of the ARF: enhancing cooperative structures & mechanisms for CBMs and PD Presentation by: Wong Chow Ming, Singapore

History of the ARF: An exercise in confidence building Background behind the formation of the ARF -- born after cold war, need for multilateral security dialogue -- building of trust and development of norms Why possible? -- confidence building activities -- responsive to new/emerging security issues

The present ARF: a forum in transition Decision to move into PD in 2005 Strides towards concrete cooperation -- Table Top exercises -- ARF Guidelines on Disaster Relief Cooperation Why important? -- Build inter-operability, familiarity Accomplishment considering diversities of ARF members

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review Desk Top and SOPs important, but not sufficient for PD Hence, undertaking the ARF Review -- Stocktake on current achivements -- Chart out future direction

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review (II) Internal and External factors driving review -- External: regional environment, security challenges increasingly multi-faceted, ARF no longer the only game in town -- Internal: expansion, divergent interests Review to address these issues, as well as to brainstorm on ways to revitalize the forum.

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review (III) a) Roles of ASEAN and non-ASEAN - ASEAN as primary driving force, but lack resources - Vital role of non-ASEAN ARF participants

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review (IV) b)Focus on key areas Diffused and lacking in focus Focus on a few key areas, i.e. counter-terrorism, disaster management, non-proliferation & disarmament, and maritime security Already two ISMs established

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review (V) c)Enhance concrete practical cooperation Seminars and workshops build confidence But need concrete cooperation such as joint exercises Movement towards real exercises involving real assets

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review (VI) d) Streamline decision-making processes. Routine activities to be passed to SOM for approval Urgent meetings to be convened through ad-referendum approval Working Methods proposal

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review (VII) Other recommendations: -strengthen Chair and ARF Unit --Sec-Gen as ex officio member of FOC -maintain flexible moratorium on membership -enhance cooperation with Track II and external organizations List not exhaustive -- PD Study and ARF Review recommendations- basis of ARF Vision Statement

The future of the ARF: the ARF Review (VIII) 27 members, consensus no easy feat Review should be bold and visionary Trick is to achieve a balance

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