Canadian Defence Academy hosts ASEAN Regional Forum meeting in Victoria

Victoria, British Columbia, was the site of the 28th ASEAN Regional Forum Heads of Defence Universities, Colleges, Institutions Meeting from October 20 to 23, 2026. The Canadian Defence Academy hosted the gathering, according to Government of Canada — National Defence.

Canada served as host for the first time, sharing hosting responsibilities with the Philippines. Participants included senior representatives of professional military education institutions and defence organizations from across the ASEAN Regional Forum.

Major-General Jeannot Boucher, Commander, Canadian Defence Academy, said: “The Canadian Defence Academy was honoured to host the 28th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Regional Forum Heads of Defence Universities, Colleges, Institutions Meeting in Victoria, British Columbia. The open and constructive discussions throughout the forum highlighted the value of professional military education in building relationships, trust, and regional stability.”

The delegations examined how professional military education relates to regional security challenges, leadership development and expanded cooperation. National Defence said the meeting contributed to Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and defence diplomacy objectives.