BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, July 31: Following are highlights of a statement issued at the end of the ASEAN Regional Forum in Brunei on Wednesday involving the foreign ministers of 22 countries and the European Union:

— The ministers reviewed the overall security environment of the Asia-Pacific and were... of the view that whilst the security situation remained stable, the region continued to face uncertainties and challenges such as the sustainability of the economic recovery process and the threats of terrorism.

— The ministers welcomed the issuance of a statement on measures to choke terrorist financing.

— The ministers welcomed the establishment of an inter-sessional meeting on counter terrorism and transnational crime

— The ministers emphasised that stable and constructive relations between major powers were key to regional and global peace and security. They welcomed increased cooperation, dialogue and exchanges of visits at the highest level among leaders in the region.

— The ministers expressed concern over the recent naval clash in the Yellow Sea/West Sea which had heightened tensions in the Korean Peninsula. They noted, however, the latest moves towards the easing of tensions and the resumption of dialogue. They stressed the need to ensure the prevention of the recurrence of such an incident in the future and underlined the importance of confidence building measures.

— The ministers exchanged views on the South China Sea and noted that the adoption of a code of conduct in the South China Sea would further promote peace and stability in the region.

— The ministers welcomed the independence of East Timor on 20 May 2002 and reiterated their support for the building of an independent state.

— The ministers welcomed the recent developments in Myanmar that signified the important achievements in Myanmar’s national reconciliation process, unity and economic progress. The ministers expressed the hope that the government of Myanmar would take steps in further consolidating such progress.

— The ministers exchanged views on the situation in South Asia and recognised the close link between peace, security and stability in the region and in the rest of the world and noted efforts in easing tension between India and Pakistan. The ministers further call for an immediate end to all terrorist activities in the region as an essential step to de-escalate the situation. While welcoming its commitment to counter-terrorism, ministers earnestly looked to Pakistan to take urgent further steps to implement it. This would constitute an important step towards resumption of dialogue, strengthening of cooperation and resolution of differences through peaceful means to promote regional and international security and stability.—AFP