In a statement released on 25 Jul 2024, the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced its reaffirmation of commitment to fully and effectively implement the ASEAN Community Vision 2025. The announcement was made during the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (57″ AMM) chaired by His Excellency Saleumxay KOMMASITH, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), in Vientiane.
The meeting discussed various regional issues, including ASEAN Community building efforts, progress towards achieving 2024 priorities, and cooperation areas such as green transition, blue economy, climate change, energy, and food security. His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, attended the meeting to strengthen ties with fellow ASEAN member states.
The Cambodian government emphasized the importance of intensifying cooperation across the three community pillars – political-security, economic, and socio-cultural – to achieve a stronger ASEAN Community. The deputy prime minister commended the progress made by the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision (HLTF-ACV) in developing the strategic plans for each pillar.
Furthermore, His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to promoting friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation through the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC). The meeting welcomed continued interest from non-regional countries to accede to the TAC, including the Republic of Finland, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the Kingdom of Spain, the United Mexican States, and the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria.
The 57th AMM also discussed the follow-up to the ASEAN Leaders’ Review and Decision on the Implementation of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) and exchanged views on regional issues of common concern and interest. The meeting highlighted Cambodia’s Centrality in the evolving regional architecture and the country’s commitment to maintaining its role as a key player in regional affairs.
In conclusion, Cambodia’s participation in the 57th AMM demonstrates its dedication to strengthening ties with fellow ASEAN member states and promoting regional cooperation on key issues such as sustainable development, security, and economic growth. The country’s continued commitment to implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 is expected to enhance its position as a driving force in regional affairs.
With Cambodia’s leadership, the 57th AMM aimed to strengthen the ASEAN Community, Centrality, and unity by intensifying cooperation across the three community pillars. The meeting’s discussions and outcomes underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development.
Bilateral relations and regional cooperation
The 57th AMM marked an opportunity for Cambodia to strengthen its bilateral relationships with fellow ASEAN member states, as well as non-regional countries. The meeting’s discussions on regional issues of common concern and interest highlight the country’s commitment to maintaining its role as a key player in regional affairs.
As Cambodia continues to navigate the complexities of regional politics, its participation in the 57th AMM demonstrates its commitment to promoting regional cooperation and sustainable development.
Conclusion
The 57th AMM serves as a testament to Cambodia’s continued commitment to strengthening ties with fellow ASEAN member states and promoting regional cooperation on key issues. With its leadership, the meeting aimed to enhance the country’s position as a driving force in regional affairs and promote sustainable development in the region.