M'SIAN PM TO ATTEND ASEAN DEFENCE MINISTERS` MEETING IN PATTAYA

BANGKOK, Feb 19 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is
scheduled to attend the Third Asean Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) to be
held at the Thai resort city of Pattaya from Feb 25 to 27.

Abdullah, who is also the Defence Minister, is expected to arrive at the
Utapao Airport near Pattaya on Feb 26.

After attending the ADMM Abdullah will leave for Hua Hin on Feb 27 morning
to attend the 14th Asean Summit.

Thai Defence Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwan told a news conference here
Thursday that the ministers were also expected to hold bilaterial meetings with
their Asean counterparts on the morning of Feb 26 before the ADMM.

He said all the member countries would be represented by their respective
defence ministers, except for Myanmar, the Philippines and Brunei, which are
sending representatives.

Prawit said that among the highlights of the meeting was the deliberation on
the use Of Asean military assets and capacities in humanitarian assistance and
disaster relief.

Another topic on the agenda is the ADMM-Plus, where the ministers will
discuss the principles for membership of Asean dialogue partners.
-- BERNAMA