In a statement released on 14 Dec 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, will lead a high-level delegation to the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in Tokyo from 16 to 18 December.
The summit marks a significant milestone in ASEAN-Japan relations, with Samdech Thipadei’s attendance aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and advancing common goals of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. The Summit will focus on realizing the common vision of ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including through the launch of a new Joint Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.
During his stay in Tokyo, Samdech Thipadei will engage in bilateral talks with His Excellency KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, to discuss key areas of cooperation, including regional and international issues. The two leaders will also witness the signing of exchange notes on Japanese grant aid for three projects related to hydrography, water supply, and e-government.
Furthermore, Samdech Thipadei will participate in the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Leaders’ Meeting to discuss policies on energy transition and promote cooperation towards decarbonisation in Asia. He will also hold a bilateral summit with His Excellency SONEXAY Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and His Excellency PHAM Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam.
The visit is also seen as an opportunity for Samdech Thipadei to engage with the Cambodian community in Japan. Additionally, his delegation will comprise other ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders from the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce as well as the Cambodian Oknha Association.
Key Highlights of the Summit
- The launch of a new Joint Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, with a focus on three key themes: heart-to-heart partners across generations, partners for co-creation of economy and society of the future, and partners for peace and stability.
- Exchanges of notes on Japanese grant aid for three projects related to hydrography, water supply, and e-government.
- Participation in the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Leaders’ Meeting to discuss policies on energy transition and promote cooperation towards decarbonisation in Asia.
The significance of this summit lies in its potential to strengthen ASEAN-Japan relations and address regional challenges. Cambodia’s active engagement in regional affairs demonstrates its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Conclusion
Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet’s visit to Japan marks an important moment in the strengthening of ASEAN-Japan ties. As Cambodia continues to navigate regional and international challenges, its active engagement with key partners like Japan is crucial for achieving common goals and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.