In a statement released on 21 Oct 2023, the Kingdom of Cambodia announced the outcomes of its inaugural ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The historic summit marked a significant milestone in the strengthening of bilateral relations between Cambodia and the Gulf region.
The two-day summit brought together heads of state and government from both regions to review and set the future direction of ASEAN-GCC relations. The leaders adopted the Joint Statement of the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council Riyadh Summit, which outlined the framework for cooperation between the two regions until 2028.
Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, played a key role in the summit, emphasizing the importance of trade and investment in fostering economic growth and sustainability. He highlighted the need to further support free and open trade, stimulate investment, and create a conducive environment for promoting business in both regions.
The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues, including the escalation of conflict and violence in the Middle East, which resulted in the loss of many innocent lives, including a Cambodian student in Israel. Samdech Thipadei expressed his strong belief that GCC Member States are in a unique position to urge all parties concerned to exercise utmost restraint and engage in dialogue towards a ceasefire agreement.
In addition to the summit, Prime Minister Thipadei held productive bilateral meetings with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, and His Excellency Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam. The meetings identified areas of cooperation, including trade, investment, energy, and tourism.
The two leaders also discussed trilateral cooperation with Laos to promote connectivity and joint development in key areas such as trade, tourism, and industry. Prime Minister Chinh affirmed that preparations were underway for Samdech Thipadei's upcoming official visit to Vietnam.
Overall, the inaugural ASEAN-GCC Summit marked a significant step forward in Cambodia's diplomatic efforts to strengthen its relationships with key regional partners. The summit's outcomes are expected to have a positive impact on trade, investment, and cooperation between Cambodia and the Gulf region.
Key Highlights:
Trade and Investment: The leaders emphasized the importance of trade and investment in fostering economic growth and sustainability.
Regional Cooperation: The summit marked a significant step forward in regional cooperation, including trilateral cooperation with Laos.
Middle East Conflict: The leaders expressed concern over the escalation of conflict and violence in the Middle East and called for dialogue towards a ceasefire agreement.
By strengthening its relationships with key regional partners, Cambodia aims to increase its influence in the region and promote economic growth and development.