The Cambodia-ASEAN Business Summit 2024 is set to commence today, gathering influential business leaders, policymakers, and thought leaders from the region. The summit, taking place from April 1-2 at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, seeks to delve into ASEAN’s expanding connectivity, technological advancements, and the challenges confronting inclusive growth.
With the aim of unlocking the immense potential of the ASEAN region, the summit will revolve around three key pillars: unleashing the power of ASEAN connectivity, Cambodia serving as a gateway to ASEAN, and leveraging technology innovation and digitalization for inclusive growth.
The opening session will be presided over by Prime Minister Hun Manet, who will also deliver the keynote address. The event is organized by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council of Cambodia, with the support of the Royal Government of Cambodia and in collaboration with international chambers and business associations in the country.
The summit’s main program on Tuesday will follow an evening networking event on Monday, hosted by Cham Nimul, the Minister of Commerce. The working sessions on Tuesday morning will commence with an address by Prime Minister Hun Manet. Kith Meng, President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council of Cambodia, will extend the welcome remarks, and Thanongsinh Kanlagna, Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Chair of ASEAN Business Award 2024, will deliver special remarks during the opening session.
The keynote message for the subsequent session, focusing on “ASEAN Renewable Energy and Sustainability,” will be provided by Keo Rottanak, Minister of Mines and Energy. This will be followed by a panel discussion featuring high-level representatives, including Secretary of State Meas Soksensan from the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Paul Clements, Chairman of the International Business Chamber of Cambodia, and Thanongsinh Kanlagna from the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Lorraine Hahn, former news anchor of CNN, will moderate the discussion.
The afternoon session will commence with a keynote speech by Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice-Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia. The subsequent panel discussion, titled “Cambodia – Gateway to ASEAN,” will delve into investment opportunities, the business environment, and government initiatives to support foreign investment in Cambodia. It will also provide a platform for networking among Cambodian business leaders and government officials. Sou Socheat, Director General of the Security and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia, Kong Vibol, Minister attached to the Prime Minister and Director General in charge of the General Department of Taxation, and Kun Nhim, Minister attached to the Prime Minister and Director General in charge of the General Department of Customs and Excise will be among the panel participants, with Arnaud Darc, Chair and founder of Thalias Group, serving as the session’s moderator.
The final session will feature keynote remarks from Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Keo Sothie, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications. It will be followed by a panel discussion involving representatives from various industries and organizations, including the Thai Banker’s Association, Greenline Synergy Co., Ltd., Cellcard and Ezecom, Cyber Security Malaysia, and Maybank Group. Tan Khee Meng, President of the Malaysian Business Chamber in Cambodia, will moderate the discussion.
The event will conclude with closing remarks by Nararya S. Soeprapto, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs, followed by a gala dinner hosted by Say Sam Al, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction.
President of the Malaysian Business Chamber in Cambodia, Tan Khee Meng, expressed his belief that the summit will mark a significant milestone for Cambodia as it establishes a regional business forum. The presence of the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Ministers, ministers, and high-ranking officials underscores Cambodia’s commitment to engaging with the private sector and fostering a favorable environment for business growth and investment.
He further noted that the summit’s timing holds particular significance, considering the world’s focus on the ASEAN region and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. This platform provides Cambodia with the opportunity to showcase its potential and attract investments from the economic bloc.
The Cambodia-ASEAN Business Summit 2024 stands as a testament to Cambodia’s dedication to driving inclusive growth and development throughout ASEAN, serving as a pivotal step towards a prosperous future for the entire region.
Source: Khmer Times
