13th ASEANAPOL Training Cooperation Meeting (ATCM)

In Yangon, Myanmar on 19–20 May 2025. The 13th ASEANAPOL Training Cooperation Meeting (ATCM) was successfully convened in Yangon, Myanmar, from 19 to 20 May 2025. For the first time, the meeting adopted a hybrid format, enabling both in-person and virtual participation to maximize engagement from ASEANAPOL Member Countries (AMCs), Dialogue Partners (DPs), and Observers (OBs).

The Myanmar Police Force (MPF), as the host and current ASEANAPOL Chair for 2024–2025, welcomed 50 foreign delegates representing all 10 AMCs—RBPF, CNP, INP, LPF, MPF, RMP, PNP, SPF, RTP, and OIPA. Additionally, four DPs (MPS of China, MOI of Russia, NZP, and UK NCA) and four OBs (Argentine Federal Police, ICRC, UAE Ministry of Interior, and RCMP) were in attendance. The MPF also fielded 10 national officers.

The meeting was formally opened by Police Brigadier General Kyaw Zaya, Head of the Division against Transnational Crime, MPF, who chaired the event. He underscored the importance of police education and joint training as vital components of strengthening regional capabilities to address transnational crime. Upon his proposal, Police Colonel Pannat Phoppatchayapan of RTP was unanimously elected as Vice-Chairperson.

Police Lieutenant General Win Zaw Moe, Chief of the National Police of Myanmar, delivered welcoming remarks, highlighting the significance of the 13th ATCM as a key sideline event during MPF’s ASEANAPOL Chairmanship. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in training and capacity-building among AMCs, DPs, and OBs.

Representing the ASEANAPOL Secretariat, Police Senior Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Huu Ngoc, Director for Plans and Programmes, delivered a speech on behalf of Executive Director Police Colonel David Martinez Vinluan. The ED emphasized the importance of unity, resilience, and future-ready cooperation in law enforcement. A moment of silence was observed in remembrance of victims of the recent earthquake affecting Myanmar and Thailand. The ED also underscored the value of practical training and cross-border collaboration in facing emerging threats, calling for a shared culture of innovation and solidarity.

Following the formalities, AMCs presented their respective training frameworks, highlighted national priorities, shared good practices, and recommended avenues for enhanced cooperation. The discussions addressed training challenges, capacity gaps, and proposals for aligning regional efforts.

DPs and OBs provided updates on ongoing and future training opportunities for ASEAN law enforcement agencies. These presentations included strategic initiatives, planned courses for 2025–2026, and proposals for deeper cooperation in line with ASEANAPOL’s objectives.

The Chairperson concluded the meeting by expressing appreciation for the meaningful contributions of all participants and reaffirmed the importance of regional and international cooperation in countering transnational crime. The meeting successfully reinforced training synergies among AMCs, DPs, and OBs.

It was announced that the 14th ASEANAPOL Training Cooperation Meeting will be hosted by the Royal Thai Police in 2026.