Cambodian Foreign Minister Emphasizes Joint Responsibility for Upholding ASEAN Principles and Regional Peace

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Prak Sokhonn, emphasized the importance of joint responsibility for ASEAN member states and signatories of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) in upholding regional peace and stability, on the occasion of ASEAN's 59th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of the TAC. In a message conveyed from Phnom Penh, Sokhonn stated, "ASEAN has transformed Southeast Asia from a region once characterized by division and uncertainty into one increasingly defined by dialogue, cooperation, and shared prosperity." He underscored that the ASEAN Charter and TAC serve as indispensable foundations for regional peace and stability. He particularly highlighted that the TAC has provided a common framework for peaceful relations among states, and confidence in its principles has led to an increasing number of signatories. However, he cautioned that the current international landscape is fraught with uncertainty, marked by the resurgence of armed conflicts, rising geopolitical tensions, and increasing pressure on international law and multilateralism. Sokhonn asserted that peace is a "daily choice" that requires continuous effort, thoughtful patience, inclusive dialogue, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law. He stressed that adherence to TAC principles such as mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, peaceful settlement of disputes, and the renunciation of the threat or use of force, along with effective cooperation, are crucial for ASEAN's relevance. Citing the border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand as an example, the minister pointed out that it is not merely a bilateral issue but one that also affects ASEAN's fundamental principles. He stated that peaceful and sustainable solutions are essential for the people of both countries to live side-by-side in peace, stability, and shared prosperity. Cambodia continues to call for the immediate, full, and effective implementation of the Joint Statement of December 27, 2025, especially the prompt resumption of border demarcation and landmark installation work by the Joint Border Commission, as well as the safe and dignified return of displaced civilians to their homes and livelihoods as soon as possible. Furthermore, he emphasized that ASEAN cannot remain passive; it must respond to changes and help guide their direction, underscoring that ASEAN's unity and centrality are indispensable. Centrality, he noted, must be reflected through consistency, responsiveness, and the ability to deliver meaningful outcomes for the people. Cambodia expressed pride in its membership in ASEAN since 1999 and reaffirmed its strong commitment to strengthening ASEAN's unity, resilience, and relevance, as well as its adherence to the principles and practices of the ASEAN Charter and TAC. In conclusion, he stated that the future of ASEAN is for us to determine, and ASEAN's success depends not only on governments but also on the active participation of the business sector, academic institutions, civil society, youth, and local communities. He called for a collective effort to strengthen the common ASEAN identity and promote a spirit of shared responsibility for the future of the region. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the TAC, he urged to collectively recommit to translating the principles of this enduring treaty into concrete actions and to preserve it as a vibrant cornerstone for peace and cooperation within and beyond the region. Source: AKP Khmer