In a series of high-level diplomatic meetings held in Vientiane, Laos on October 10, 2024, Cambodia’s Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet reaffirmed the country’s commitment to regional cooperation and strengthening partnerships with major economies.
At the 27th ASEAN-China Summit, the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea (ROK) Summit, the 27th ASEAN-Japan Summit, the 4th ASEAN-Australia Summit, the 21st ASEAN-India Summit, and the ASEAN-Canada Special Summit, leaders from across the region underscored their determination to enhance trade and investment, people-to-people exchanges, and connectivity in a bid to promote peace, stability, and prosperity.
During the summits, Samdech Thipadei highlighted Cambodia’s enthusiasm for the completion of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) 3.0 Upgrade Negotiations, which will further deepen regional economic integration. The upgraded agreement is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of trade between Cambodia and China.
Cambodia also welcomed China’s proposal to establish an ASEAN-China Ministerial Meeting on Energy, with a focus on developing the ASEAN Power Grid. The country expressed its commitment to advancing the green agenda and reducing carbon emissions, with a special emphasis on promoting digital innovation and renewable energy sources.
Samdech Thipadei’s counterpart from ROK, President Yoon Suk-yeol, welcomed Cambodia’s support for the establishment of an ASEAN-ROK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking another significant milestone in the two countries’ long-standing dialogue relations. The summit saw agreements on enhancing cooperation in emerging industries such as digital economy and green technologies.
In Japan, Samdech Thipadei commended Japan’s contributions to the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 and expressed appreciation for Japan’s commitment to helping ASEAN decarbonize and promote regional connectivity. The two countries also agreed to enhance their air services agreement to boost tourism exchanges.
At the ASEAN-Australia Summit, Samdech Thipadei emphasized the importance of promoting cooperation in emerging industries such as digital economy and green agenda. Cambodia welcomed Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy 2040 and expressed its commitment to further deepening regional economic integration through trade and investment.
Samdech Thipadei also encouraged India to support ASEAN’s efforts to equip its peoples with digital skills, particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The two countries agreed to deepen collaboration in renewable energy sources and green technologies.
During the ASEAN-Canada Special Summit, Samdech Thipadei emphasized the need to strengthen regional economic integration and promote trade and investment. Cambodia encouraged Canada to support ASEAN’s efforts to enhance connectivity through infrastructure development.
The 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit concluded with a call for tangible win-win cooperation among member states to foster an integrated East Asia community. The meeting adopted the APT Leaders’ Statement on Strengthening Regional Supply Chains, aiming to enhance regional resilience and sustainability.
Significance of Cambodia’s Diplomatic Efforts
Cambodia’s diplomatic efforts demonstrate its commitment to strengthening regional ties and promoting cooperation with major economies. By reaffirming partnerships with China, ROK, Japan, Australia, India, and Canada, the country underscores its role as a key player in regional affairs.
The completion of ACFTA 3.0 Upgrade Negotiations marks a significant milestone for Cambodia’s economic integration into the region. The country’s emphasis on digital innovation, renewable energy sources, and green technologies reflects its commitment to promoting sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions.
Overall, Samdech Thipadei’s diplomatic efforts highlight Cambodia’s determination to strengthen regional cooperation and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in East Asia.