In a statement released on 03 Feb 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs SOK Chenda Sophea led a delegation to the 24th ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd European Union Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Brussels. The two-day event brought together senior officials from the EU, ASEAN, and Pacific countries to discuss key regional issues and strengthen cooperation.
The ministerial meeting recalled the substantive deliverables of the ASEAN-EU Commemorative Summit in 2022, reaffirming shared values and common interests that underpin 47 years of ASEAN-EU Dialogue Relations. Ministers commended good progress implementing the ASEAN-EU Plan of Action (2023-2027) and adopted a Joint Statement. They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest and concern.
Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea emphasized Cambodia's commitment to enhancing the ASEAN-EU Strategic Partnership, highlighting the need for regular engagements between Leaders to propel relations to new heights. He stressed the importance of strengthening connectivity, including through the full and effective implementation of the ASEAN-EU Joint Ministerial Statement on Connectivity.
The 3rd EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum focused on three key areas: shared prosperity, economic resilience and investment; the green transition and partnering for a sustainable future; and geopolitical and security challenges. Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea shared his insights on economic resilience and investment, highlighting the significance of bolstering partnerships and cooperation between the EU, ASEAN, and Pacific countries.
During the event, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea held bilateral meetings with foreign ministers from several European countries, including the Czech Republic, Latvia, Hungary, Belgium, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the UAE. He also discussed regional issues with His Excellency Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
The event underscores Cambodia's growing engagement in regional and international affairs, particularly in the context of ASEAN-EU cooperation. The country's commitment to strengthening connectivity and promoting sustainable development is likely to have significant implications for regional and global relations in the coming years.
In conclusion, the 24th ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting and the 3rd European Union Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum demonstrate Cambodia's leadership role in regional diplomacy and its commitment to strengthening partnerships with key international partners.