On November 12-13, 2024, His Excellency KUNG Phoak, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) Leader for Cambodia, represented the nation at the 14th ASEAN Maritime Forum (AMF) and the 12th Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF). The forums, held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, brought together representatives from ASEAN member states and key partners to address pressing issues and opportunities in the maritime domain.
Fostering ASEAN Maritime Cooperation
The ASEAN Maritime Forum (AMF) serves as a critical platform for discussing regional maritime challenges and identifying pathways for strengthened cooperation. During the 14th AMF, participants examined a wide range of issues, including the need to address emerging threats, enhance regional stability, and promote sustainable practices within ASEAN’s maritime sphere. Discussions also focused on identifying innovative measures and initiatives to advance shared objectives across the region.
H.E. KUNG Phoak highlighted Cambodia’s commitment to maritime cooperation, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to maintain peace, security, and stability in ASEAN waters. He underscored the role of collaborative approaches in mitigating challenges such as illegal fishing, piracy, and marine pollution. Cambodia’s active engagement in such discussions reflects its dedication to fostering an inclusive and secure maritime environment within ASEAN.
Exploring Blue Economy and Resilience
The 12th Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF), which includes dialogue partners such as China, Japan, India, and the United States, provided a broader platform to address maritime connectivity, ecosystem resilience, and blue economy cooperation. The blue economy, encompassing sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, livelihoods, and environmental health, has become an increasingly important focus for ASEAN countries.
Participants exchanged perspectives on enhancing maritime transport connectivity to boost trade and economic integration across the region. Discussions also addressed the critical need for ecosystem resilience, emphasizing sustainable fishing practices, marine biodiversity conservation, and measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change on coastal and marine environments.
H.E. KUNG Phoak reaffirmed Cambodia’s support for blue economy initiatives, recognizing their potential to drive sustainable economic growth while safeguarding marine ecosystems. He highlighted Cambodia’s efforts in promoting responsible marine resource management and its readiness to collaborate on regional initiatives that align with ASEAN’s priorities.
Strengthening Partnerships for a Secure Maritime Future
Both forums underscored the importance of partnerships among ASEAN members and dialogue partners in addressing shared maritime challenges. Enhancing maritime security and improving regional stability were central themes, with participants emphasizing the need for coordinated approaches to address issues such as maritime disputes and transboundary crimes.
In addition to strengthening security measures, the forums stressed the significance of innovation and capacity building. Enhancing regional capabilities in areas such as maritime domain awareness and sustainable fisheries management remains a priority for ASEAN, reflecting the region’s commitment to fostering a resilient and thriving maritime sector.
Cambodia’s Role in ASEAN Maritime Cooperation
Cambodia’s participation in the AMF and EAMF highlights its active role in shaping the future of ASEAN’s maritime collaboration. As a nation with strategic maritime interests, Cambodia recognizes the importance of collective efforts in maintaining regional stability, promoting sustainable practices, and harnessing the potential of the blue economy.
By engaging in these forums, Cambodia not only contributes to advancing ASEAN’s maritime agenda but also reinforces its dedication to regional cooperation and shared prosperity. The insights and initiatives discussed during these forums will serve as valuable inputs for ASEAN’s continued efforts to build a secure and sustainable maritime future for the region.
Source: MFAIC News
