In a significant development, Cambodia played a key role in shaping the future of ASEAN-ECO cooperation during the 15th ASEAN-ECO Ministerial Meeting held in New York on September 22, 2023, on the sidelines of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
The meeting, chaired by Azerbaijan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs His Excellency Jeyhun Bayramov, brought together high-ranking officials from both organizations to review progress on implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between ASEAN and ECO since 2006. The four priority areas under focus were trade and investment, narcotics control, SMEs development, and tourism.
During the meeting, Cambodia emphasized the importance of exploring new sources of growth in a rapidly changing economic landscape. “We see great potential in our cooperation and collaboration in key areas such as digital economy, green transition, connectivity, e-commerce, and regional and global supply chains,” said His Excellency Sok Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The 15th ASEAN-ECO Ministerial Meeting also adopted the Framework of Cooperation between ASEAN and ECO (2024-2028), which aims to bolster and expand practical areas of cooperation. The framework includes regular coordination and consultation mechanisms between the two organizations, particularly through their respective Secretariats.
Key highlights of the meeting include:
- Reviewing progress on implementing the MOU between ASEAN and ECO since 2006
- Exchanging views on recent developments to further enhance ASEAN-ECO cooperation in areas of mutual interest
- Auditing the Framework of Cooperation between ASEAN and ECO (2024-2028)
- Strengthening regular coordination and consultation mechanisms between the two organizations
The adoption of the new framework is seen as a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral relations between Cambodia and ECO member states. The move is expected to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, narcotics control, SMEs development, and tourism, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and resilience of both regions.
In conclusion, Cambodia’s active role in shaping the future of ASEAN-ECO cooperation underscores its commitment to promoting regional peace, stability, and prosperity. As a key player in Southeast Asian regional organizations, Cambodia is poised to play an increasingly important role in fostering stronger ties with ECO member states and other international partners.