In a strategic move to bolster economic relationships, the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) is actively enhancing cooperation with both the European Union (EU) and the member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This initiative aims at fostering shared prosperity, strengthening economic resilience, and deepening investment connections across these regions.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sok Chenda Sophea, is representing Cambodia in Brussels, Belgium, attending two key forums: the ‘Third European Union Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum’ and the ’24th ASEAN-European Union Ministerial Meeting’ scheduled for February 1-2. The participation follows an invitation from Josep Borrell Fontelles, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.
The agenda for these meetings is robust, focusing on topics such as shared prosperity, economic resilience, and investment opportunities. The goal is to rejuvenate partnerships between the EU and ASEAN, leveraging their strengths to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development. The discussions are poised to build on the momentum from the ASEAN-EU Commemorative Summit held on December 14, 2022, and to explore new avenues for collaborative progress.
The ’24th ASEAN-European Union Ministerial Meeting,’ co-chaired by the Philippines and the EU foreign ministers, will delve into the implementation of the ASEAN-EU Plan of Action for 2023-2027. The dialogue will also encompass regional and international issues that are of mutual interest, aiming to further the ASEAN-EU Strategic Partnership.
In addition to the forum participations, Deputy Prime Minister Sophea is slated for individual meetings with counterparts from various EU member states and development partners. These interactions are expected to reinforce Cambodia’s bilateral relations and foster greater cooperation with these nations.
Highlighting the ongoing diplomatic efforts, a recent engagement between Cambodian and German officials took place in Berlin, where both sides reaffirmed their dedication to expanding cooperation in economic, trade, education, tourism, environmental, and parliamentary sectors. These discussions underscore the mutual commitment to bolstering relations within the frameworks of EU-Cambodia and EU-ASEAN, while supporting each other on the global stage.
Source: Khmer Times
