In a move to bolster regional security, Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng has called for enhanced collaboration with ASEAN countries to combat transnational crime and apprehend criminal fugitives. Speaking at a meeting in Hà Nội with leaders from ASEAN delegations and representatives of the ASEAN Secretariat, Hưng emphasized the need for stronger bilateral extradition and prisoner-transfer agreements among member states.
The prime minister urged swift ratification of the ASEAN Treaty on Extradition and the implementation of effective mechanisms for verifying information, locating suspects, and facilitating their transfer between countries. He highlighted the importance of utilizing INTERPOL and ASEANAPOL databases and establishing direct information-sharing channels to support law enforcement investigations and counter emerging forms of transnational crime.
Hưng also advocated for increased exchanges between law-enforcement agencies, specialized training programs, and closer cooperation in technology and digital transformation. These efforts aim to enhance the region’s capacity to prevent and investigate cross-border crime effectively.
The conference concluded with the adoption of an ASEAN Joint Action Plan and a Joint Declaration, both designed to strengthen regional cooperation in tracking and managing criminal fugitives. This collaborative approach signifies a commitment by ASEAN members to address the challenges posed by transnational criminal activities.