Overview

The AMM, established by the Bangkok Declaration in 1967, is responsible for ASEAN’s political-security cooperation as well as ASEAN’s relations with external parties in ASEAN. The AMM meets at least four times a year and may convene special meetings as and when necessary to discuss issues that require immediate attention of ASEAN. The AMM regularly reviews and discusses ASEAN Community-building efforts, its strategic future directions, as well as the conduct of ASEAN’s external relations.

In undertaking its functions, the AMM is assisted by the ASEAN SOM, which meets around eight times a year. They may also convene special meetings, as and when necessary. 

As a subsidiary body of the AMM, the ASEAN SOM’s deliberations and recommendations are submitted to the AMM for further consideration.