In a statement released on 10 May 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia announced the successful outcome of its 12th joint committee meeting with the European Union. The meeting, held in Brussels on 25 April 2024, marked an important milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two parties.
During the meeting, the EU and Cambodia exchanged views on a range of bilateral and multilateral issues, including the latest developments in both regions. They reaffirmed their commitment to upholding international law and order, as well as promoting regional cooperation and dialogue. The EU and Cambodia also emphasized the importance of addressing pressing global challenges, such as peace and stability in Ukraine, and human rights concerns in various parts of the world.
The Joint Committee discussed the latest progress on development cooperation between the EU and Cambodia, with a focus on aligning their strategic frameworks and reviewing progress under the ongoing EU-Cambodia Multi-annual Indicative Programme (MIP 2021-2027). Both parties agreed on the importance of promoting sustainable development goals, supporting green growth and decent jobs, and enhancing integration within ASEAN.
Trade relations were also a key area of discussion, with the EU highlighting Cambodia’s obligations under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Regulation and market access issues. The parties exchanged views on regional economic developments, including updates on economic integration in ASEAN and across the Asia-Pacific region.
Human rights concerns were another important topic of discussion, with the EU expressing concerns over recent harassment and arrests of human rights defenders and civil society activists in Cambodia. The EU called on Cambodia to allow these individuals to freely exercise their civil and political rights. In response, Cambodia emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles and fundamental freedoms, while also noting that certain actions were necessary to maintain law and order.
The Joint Committee concluded under an amicable and frank atmosphere, with both parties agreeing to continue their dialogue on key issues. The next meeting is expected to take place in 2026 in Cambodia.
- The EU and Cambodia exchanged views on regional cooperation and dialogue.
- The EU emphasized the importance of upholding international law and order.
- Key areas of discussion included development cooperation, trade relations, human rights concerns, and regional economic developments.
- Cambodia emphasized the importance of promoting sustainable development goals and supporting green growth and decent jobs.
The 12th Cambodia-EU Joint Committee meeting represents an important step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two parties. By continuing to engage on key issues and promoting regional cooperation, the EU and Cambodia can work together to address pressing global challenges and promote sustainable development in the region.
In conclusion, the success of the 12th joint committee meeting highlights the ongoing commitment of both parties to fostering a strong and cooperative relationship. As the EU and Cambodia move forward, it is essential that they continue to engage on key issues and work towards promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.