Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea has underscored the key strengths of ASEAN, making the bloc a model of regional cooperation and solidarity.

‘Today marks an auspicious moment for all Southeast Asian citizens as we commemorate the 57th anniversary of ASEAN. For almost six decades, ASEAN has worked diligently to make sure that its centrality and unity are preserved and strengthened,’ he said in his ASEAN Day Message on Aug. 8.

Centrality is the driving force behind our substantive dialogue and cooperation with external partners to maintain peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia, he said, stressing that it reflects the ASEAN commitment for a region that’s economically vibrant, socially just, and culturally interconnected.

‘ASEAN stands as a model of regional cooperation and solidarity on the international stage. Together, we’ve built a thriving community that champions shared values and mutual interests while add
ressing common challenges. One of our key strengths is our commitment to solidarity among members. Through dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect, ASEAN Member States have worked hand-in-hand to create a harmonious environment for stability, economic growth, and social development,’ he emphasised.

The Cambodian top diplomat added that Unity in Diversity is another strength that contributes to the ASEAN’s resilience. ‘We are proud of our remarkable diversity of cultures, traditions, languages, and histories a source of strength and creativity for our region,’ he said.

Of course, he continued, there are differences among us, sometimes even disagreements, how could there not be given our diversity? The virtue of ASEAN is not to erase our differences; it is to help us see past them, work through them and move beyond them.

According to H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea, amid escalating geopolitical rivalries, ASEAN’s increasingly central role and relevance as a beacon for friendly relation and mutually beneficial coopera
tion are clearly reflected by the growing interests from non-regional countries to accede to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC).

‘To navigate this landscape effectively, we must show our capacity to innovate and adapt while preserving our unity and centrality. By upholding core values, enhancing regional cooperation, and forging robust partnerships with external stakeholders, ASEAN will be able to address challenges and seize opportunities to foster peace, stability, and prosperity for all members and the wider region,’ he said.

‘On this ASEAN Day, let’s celebrate the incredible progress we’ve made together over the decades. As we raise the ASEAN flag high, let it be a symbol of our shared pride and unity. The future holds many challenges. But I have no doubt that the ASEAN’s spirit of cooperation and resilience will see us through. Together, we can bring about peace, stability, and prosperity in the region for our peoples’ well-being,’ the Cambodian DPM concluded.

Source : Agenc
e Kampuchea Presse