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Guard Bureau Chief Emphasizes Partnerships at Defense Services Asia Conference
National Guard Bureau chief, Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, emphasized the importance of alliances and partnerships at the Defence Services Asia conference in Kuala Lumpur. Hokanson highlighted the need for collective efforts to maintain the international rules-based order and address shared challenges and opportunities.
During the conference, Hokanson participated in a panel discussion on emerging technologies and non-traditional threats, such as unmanned aerial systems, artificial intelligence, cyber threats, and climate change. He also discussed the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program, which has grown to include 92 partnerships with 106 nations, promoting security cooperation and building relationships.
One of the partnerships highlighted was between the Washington National Guard and Malaysia, formalized in 2017. This partnership focuses on supporting maritime security, defense professionalization, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and other key areas. The continuous engagement through the State Partnership Program contributes to providing access, influence, and insight in the Indo-Pacific region.
Hokanson also held bilateral meetings with defense officials from Malaysia and the Philippines to enhance relations and emphasize shared priorities of prosperity, security, and a free and open Indo-Pacific. The discussions during the conference emphasized the importance of security cooperation initiatives in ensuring global trade routes, fighting food insecurity, and promoting peace and stability.
Overall, the conference highlighted the significance of partnerships and alliances in addressing global challenges and promoting security, stability, and peace across the globe. Hokanson’s participation underscored the National Guard’s commitment to building relationships and working together with international partners to address shared threats and opportunities.
