In a significant move to enhance regional security, Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng has called for increased cooperation with ASEAN countries to tackle transnational crime and apprehend criminal fugitives. This appeal was made during a meeting held in Hà Nội with leaders from the ASEAN delegation and representatives of the ASEAN Secretariat.
Prime Minister Hưng emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral extradition agreements and prisoner-transfer protocols among ASEAN member states. He urged for a swift ratification of the ASEAN Treaty on Extradition to streamline these processes. To bolster efforts in locating and apprehending fugitives, he advocated for the establishment of effective mechanisms that facilitate the verification of information and the transfer of suspects between countries.
The Vietnamese leader also recommended greater utilization of INTERPOL and ASEANAPOL databases to aid investigations and deter new forms of transnational crime. Enhanced direct information-sharing channels were encouraged to expedite the process of tracking and capturing criminals.
Furthermore, Hưng proposed increased exchanges between law enforcement agencies across the region and the development of specialized training programs. He highlighted the need for closer collaboration in technology and digital transformation, which would enhance capacities to prevent and investigate cross-border criminal activities.
The conference concluded with the adoption of an ASEAN Joint Action Plan and a Joint Declaration, both aimed at fortifying regional cooperation against criminal fugitives. These agreements underscore ASEAN’s collective commitment to addressing the challenges posed by transnational crime through unified efforts and shared resources.