Phnom penh: Cambodian Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Prak Sokhonn emphasized the indispensability of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a platform for regional peace and stability. He highlighted the importance of the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in guiding the bloc's efforts.
According to Nam News Network, Prak Sokhonn remarked that for nearly six decades, ASEAN has played a crucial role in transforming Southeast Asia from a region characterized by division and uncertainty into one marked by dialogue, cooperation, and shared prosperity. However, he noted that the region now faces a more volatile global climate, with increasing armed conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and challenges to international law and multilateralism.
In response to these challenges, Sokhonn stressed that ASEAN must not remain passive but should actively help shape changes in the region. He underscored the importance of ASEAN's unity and centrality in navigating modern geopolitical challenges. As a deputy prime minister, Sokhonn expressed pride in Cambodia's contributions to the region since joining ASEAN in 1999 and reiterated Cambodia's commitment to strengthening ASEAN's unity, resilience, and global relevance.
ASEAN, founded on August 8, 1967, currently includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste.