UNODC, RTP and ASEANAPOL Advance Practical Maritime Cooperation Through First Joint AM-IEN Meeting

Bangkok, Thailand | 3 November 2026

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Royal Thai Police (RTP), in collaboration with the ASEANAPOL Secretariat, jointly hosted the first ASEAN Maritime Information Exchange Network (AM-IEN) meeting in Bangkok on 3 November 2026.

This inaugural meeting marks an important step towards establishing a regional maritime law enforcement network, strengthening partnerships among participating agencies and promoting the exchange of maritime crime information through a common platform.

Beyond discussions, the meeting featured a practical information-sharing exercise, enabling participants to exchange information directly and explore how such exchanges could support operational cooperation. Participants also undertook a field visit to the RTP Marine Police, including an onboard demonstration of maritime police operations, providing firsthand exposure to maritime law enforcement practices.

A key objective is to leverage ASEANAPOL’s Electronic ASEANAPOL Database System (e-ADS) as a common platform for timely and secure information sharing, with the aim of translating exchanged intelligence into practical follow-up procedures, coordinated investigations and concrete operational results.

Police Senior Colonel Dr. Kongkrissada Kittithiraphong, Executive Director of the ASEANAPOL Secretariat, delivered opening remarks and a presentation titled “Building a Secure Maritime Future Through Information Sharing.” He highlighted the importance of regional connectivity and introduced ASEANAPOL’s 6P Framework (Policy, People, Platform, Procedure, Partners and Progress) as a practical approach to maritime law enforcement cooperation.

“Let us remember Bangkok not merely as a beautiful city, but as the place where we took action together to establish AM-IEN. Let people remember ASEAN not only as a region that talks, but as one that takes action and delivers real results,” said Police Senior Colonel Dr. Kongkrissada Kittithiraphong.

The meeting reflects the shared commitment of UNODC, RTP and ASEANAPOL to build a sustainable information-sharing network that connects practical exercises, operational experience and future cooperation, while respecting national laws and procedures.

The ASEANAPOL Secretariat extends its sincere appreciation to UNODC and the RTP for their valuable cooperation and support in making this inaugural meeting possible.

From information sharing to coordinated action, and from cooperation to concrete results.

Together, we keep this region safe.