Cambodia, Japan Deepen Strategic Partnership, Emphasizing ASEAN Centrality

PHNOM PENH, Sept 18, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and Japan are seeking to deepen their strategic partnership beyond traditional bilateral cooperation, with ASEAN centrality, regional stability and economic resilience identified as key areas for future collaboration, officials and experts said Friday. The issue was highlighted at a policy dialogue on “Strategic Synergies: Advancing the Cambodia–Japan Partnership in a Regional Context,” organised by the Cambodian Center for Regional Studies and the Embassy of Japan in Phnom Penh. Dr Kei Koga of Nanyang Technological University said the future relationship should focus on co‑creation, with both sides identifying respective needs, expertise and resources. He argued Cambodia and Japan could build a more mutually beneficial partnership rather than relying on a donor‑recipient model. Capacity building was cited as a practical area for deeper cooperation. Koga said Cambodia requires stronger capabilities in both soft and hard infrastructure, while Japan can contribute technology and expertise to strengthen resilience and autonomy. He also pointed to Cambodia’s demining experience as an area where the two countries could combine strengths to support post‑conflict states. Ambassador Pou Sothirak, senior advisor to the Cambodian Center for Regional Studies, said Cambodia and Japan could leverage their strategic capabilities to address bilateral and regional security concerns. He said Japan could play a constructive role in supporting regional stability while both countries respond to a changing geopolitical environment. Maritime cooperation was also highlighted, with Cambodia’s use of the UNCLOS conciliation mechanism with Thailand cited as an example of international law’s role in resolving disputes. The first Cambodia–Thailand conciliation meeting concluded in Singapore on Sept 16, with both sides agreeing on procedural arrangements. Sophirak said the broader objective is to strengthen cooperation contributing to a free, open and resilient Indo‑Pacific, while maintaining ASEAN’s central role. The dialogue was intended to generate recommendations for future diplomatic and strategic engagement, suggesting the partnership is increasingly viewed not only through bilateral development but also its contribution to wider ASEAN and Indo‑Pacific cooperation. Source: Kampuchea Thmey English