(VOVworld) – A contingent from the Vietnam People’s Army is to join an exercise in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and military medicine (HADR & MM) in Brunei. The drill will take place from June 17-20 within the cooperation framework of the ASEAN Defense Ministerial Meeting Plus (ADMM+). This will be the biggest ever exercise in ASEAN’s history with advanced equipment and supplies to be tested. Colonel Pham Van Ty, Deputy Head of the National Committee for Search and Rescue Office said that the armies of Vietnam and China will co-chair an exercise of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. He added: “As well as taking part in the exercise, we will also be actively involved in discussions with delegates from other countries so as to learn from their experiences in the organization, guidance and management of disaster response activities. We will share our experience in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, including the resolution of war consequences and response to potential incidents that may occur as a result of socio-economic development or the natural disasters. We are responsible for joining together in these regional and global efforts. Our army has a responsibility to contribute to the other armies of 10 ASEAN member countries and the 8 other countries in Asia, Europe and the rest of the world”.

Colonel Ty said the exercise will involve the participation of 18 countries.