Cambodia Gears Up to Host ISC-2, Highlighting Growing Role in Parliamentary Diplomacy

Cambodia has nearly completed all preparations to host the 2nd Inter-Parliamentary Speakers' Conference (ISC-2) in Phnom Penh from August 26 to 28. In a special interview with the state-run Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP) this morning, Senate Spokesperson H.E. Chea Thyrith said the Senate's organising committee and relevant institutions have been working intensively since Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen accepted the responsibility of hosting the conference. "As of now, we are almost 100 percent ready. We are simply awaiting the official opening of this historic international event at the end of August," he said. According to the spokesperson, parliamentary leaders, international experts, and scholars from around 50 countries have already confirmed their participation, with more confirmations expected before the conference begins. Representatives from more than 10 international organisations are also expected to attend. "The current figure stands at around 50 countries, but we believe more confirmations will be received before the conference begins," H.E. Chea Thyrith said. Cambodia will host the ISC-2 under the theme "Solidarity for Peace and Shared Prosperity – Strengthening International Law and Resolving Conflicts Peacefully." H.E. Chea Thyrith said the conference reflects Cambodia's growing role in parliamentary diplomacy and its commitment to strengthening cooperation with legislative bodies around the world. He added that the event is fully aligned with the strategic vision of Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, particularly the promotion of parliamentary diplomacy as a complement to the Kingdom's executive diplomacy. While the executive branch conducts official state diplomacy through government channels, the legislative branch also plays an important role in expanding Cambodia's international partnerships, enhancing mutual understanding, and promoting the country's image through parliamentary engagement, he explained. Hosting the conference, he added, demonstrates Cambodia's increasing contribution to international dialogue and cooperation, while showcasing the Kingdom's ability to organise major international events and further raising its profile within the global parliamentary community. Established in 2025, the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers' Conference has rapidly developed into a high-level platform for parliamentary leaders to exchange views and address global challenges. The inaugural conference was held in Islamabad, Pakistan, in November 2025 under the theme "Peace, Security and Development." By Heng Panha