Tokyo, 7 July 2023 (TDI): Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), joined the press conference held for the ASEAN-Japan Special Meeting of Justice Ministers (AJSMJ).
Co-chairing the event were Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, Minister of the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) of Malaysia, and Saito Ken, the Minister of Justice of Japan. Together, they presented the media with a comprehensive overview of the meeting’s resounding achievements.
The AJSMJ, a platform fostering closer cooperation and understanding between ASEAN member states and Japan, showcased notable outcomes that will advance justice and legal systems in the region.
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn expressed his satisfaction with the meeting’s results, emphasizing the substantial progress made in strengthening bilateral ties and promoting shared values of justice, equality, and the rule of law.
During the press conference, Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said highlighted the discussions held among justice ministers, emphasizing the AJSMJ’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions for legal challenges faced by ASEAN and Japan.
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Key topics addressed during the AJSMJ included legal cooperation in combating transnational crimes, promoting human rights and access to justice, and sharing best practices in judicial reforms. Collaborative initiatives were agreed upon to combat emerging challenges such as cybercrime, terrorism, and money laundering.
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn expressed his gratitude to all participants, acknowledging their commitment to forging meaningful partnerships for a secure and prosperous future.
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn concluded a day of meetings by attending the dinner reception organized for ASEAN and G7 delegates.
A symposium was also arranged on the sideline of this meeting by United Nations Asia and Far East Institution (UNAFEI) and Singapore arbitration institutions themed “Comparative Approach to a Culture of Lawfulness.”
