Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen, who is in Brunei to attend the 7th Asean Defence Ministers' Meeting, signed a joint declaration on Tuesday along with other Ministers in the region to reaffirm their commitment to enhance regional peace and security.

During the meeting, the ministers discussed regional security issues including measures to reduce tensions in the South China Sea.

They also reiterated the importance of keeping channels of communication open so as to avoid escalation and miscalculation in the South China Sea.

They noted as well the progress that has been made in enhancing practical cooperation in addressing non-traditional security challenges such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.