On 6-7 November 2024, the Kingdom of Cambodia played a significant role in three major diplomatic summits: the 8th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Summit, the 10th Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS) Summit, and the 11th Cambodia-Lao PDR-Myanmar-Viet Nam (CLMV) Summit, all held in Kunming, People’s Republic of China.
The 8th GMS Summit, chaired by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, aimed to “Toward a Better Community through Innovation-Driven Development”. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet attended the summit and delivered remarks on innovation-driven development. He emphasized the need for deeper regional cooperation and integration in the face of complex global challenges.
The GMS leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic cooperation, focusing on agriculture, energy, environment, health, tourism, transport, trade, and investment. They also acknowledged the active role played by development partners, particularly the Asian Development Bank.
Regional Cooperation and Economic Integration
The 10th ACMECS Summit, chaired by Lao Prime Minister Dr. Sonexay Siphandone, focused on “Seamless Connectivity for Mekong Sub-regional Integration”. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a fully integrated subregion, prioritizing seamless connectivity, synchronized economies, and smart cooperation.
The ACMECS Leaders praised the progress made since its inception in 2003, particularly in realizing the vision of “bridging the economic gap in the region and promoting prosperity sustainably”. They emphasized the importance of effective and sustainable cooperation, including physical and digital connectivity, to link economic corridors and develop human capital.
CLMV Summit Emphasizes Friendship and Solidarity
The 11th CLMV Summit, chaired by Myanmar State Counsellor Min Aung Hlaing, focused on “Friendship and Solidarity for Resilient and Prosperous Community”. The leaders reviewed progress made since the last Summit and exchanged views on regional cooperation.
Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister highlighted that CLMV cooperation had become a foundation for socio-economic development, where peace and stability are indispensable. He called for the promotion of agriculture as a key priority to sustain productivity and yields for food security.
Cambodia’s Role in Regional Affairs
Throughout these summits, Cambodia demonstrated its commitment to regional cooperation and diplomacy. The country’s participation in these high-level meetings highlights its role in promoting peace, stability, and economic growth in the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 8th GMS Summit, 10th ACMECS Summit, and 11th CLMV Summit demonstrate Cambodia’s continued engagement with regional affairs. The country’s diplomatic efforts aim to strengthen cooperation, promote economic integration, and foster peace and stability in the region.