Phnom Penh, July 15, 2025 — ASEAN Secretary-General H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn delivered the keynote address at the 16th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Caucus on Monday, underlining the vital role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering peace, stability, and inclusive growth throughout Southeast Asia.
Held at the National Assembly Palace in Phnom Penh, the Caucus brought together parliamentary delegates from ASEAN Member States and observer parliaments under the theme “Peace Through Dialogue: The Parliamentary Path Forward.”
Dr. Kao began his remarks by commending the National Assembly of Cambodia for its leadership in hosting the Caucus and selecting a theme that resonates with regional priorities. He stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, and multilateralism must remain at the core of ASEAN’s efforts to build enduring peace.
“The parliamentary path forward represents more than legislative processes. It embodies the democratic principle that lasting solutions emerge from dialogue and meaningful participation,” Dr. Kao said.
Reflecting on Cambodia’s journey from conflict to reconciliation, he noted that peace must be more than just the absence of war. “True peace is built on justice, inclusiveness, and participatory governance,” he added, describing the AIPA Caucus as a key platform for regional understanding and cooperation.
Dr. Kao also emphasized the importance of aligning national legislation with ASEAN’s regional frameworks, particularly in the context of ASEAN’s projected economic growth of 4.7% in 2025 and 2026. He highlighted the need for parliaments to support integration efforts in areas such as digital trade, sustainable finance, and green technologies.
Addressing emerging regional challenges, Dr. Kao called for enhanced legislative cooperation to tackle transnational threats including cybercrime, disinformation, and social vulnerabilities. He also underscored the importance of increasing youth and women’s participation in lawmaking processes.
“AIPA plays an indispensable role in translating ASEAN’s goals into reality on the ground. Parliamentarians are crucial actors in shaping an ASEAN that is inclusive, resilient, and future-ready,” he said.
Looking ahead to ASEAN’s long-term goals, Dr. Kao urged AIPA to strengthen its collaboration with ASEAN institutions and external partners to support the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. He welcomed AIPA’s engagement with Timor-Leste, which is set to become ASEAN’s 11th member state later this year.
“As we move forward with the new ASEAN Community Vision 2045, let us continue to build a peaceful, prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive ASEAN,” Dr. Kao concluded. “With shared determination and a whole-of-ASEAN approach, I am confident we can create a better future for all our citizens.”
The AIPA Caucus continues to serve as a vital mechanism for fostering inter-parliamentary dialogue, strengthening ASEAN integration, and promoting people-centred development across the region.
