The ARF has had some good discussions on CBMs although it is
having problems in moving to the next stage on PD because of the
reluctance of some par6cipants to implement rules and
mechanisms that are seen to be intrusive in nature
• In the mean 6me, cri7cs and some par7cipants consider the ARF
as a “talk shop” ; progress in Asia-Pacific security coopera6on
mapped out by ARF is seen to be too slow according to them
• It must be emphasized that the ARF, under the influence of ASEAN,
is primarily interested in what is called coopera7ve security
(inclusivity, comprehensive security, dialogues and reassurance)
and not collec7ve security or defence (military/defence
coopera6on)