Japan - Prime Minister Hun Manet attended the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in Tokyo from December 16 to 18. The invitation extended by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio brought together leaders to commemorate this significant milestone.

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 19, 2023, Prime Minister Hun Manet lauded the enduring journey of ASEAN and Japan, emphasizing their strength founded on "unity in diversity." He stressed the importance of collective efforts to demonstrate the "strength of Peace," underscoring the necessity for nations in the Asia-Pacific region to collaborate to prevent the region from becoming a new arena for armed conflict or proxy warfare.

The Prime Minister commended Japan's support for the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Vision (AOIP), which includes priorities such as maritime cooperation, connectivity, sustainable development goals, and economic cooperation. He also expressed readiness for collaboration in enhancing energy efficiency and fostering cooperation between AOIP and Japan's vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).

Expressing concern over the continued intercontinental ballistic missile tests by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Prime Minister Hun Manet called on all parties to engage in constructive and peaceful dialogue to promote fully verifiable denuclearization. He also urged for the swift resolution of the Japanese abduction issue to reunite the abductees with their families.

To promote cross-generational partnership, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of human resource development, particularly through education and awareness programs. He also called for support for arts, culture, and programs that transform relations among East Asian youth, enhancing their capacity and resilience. Additionally, he encouraged Japan to continue supporting the ASEAN Digital Cultural Heritage Archive and the implementation of the ASEAN Declaration on Gender Equality and Family Development.

Regarding future economic and social cooperation, Prime Minister Hun Manet voiced support for a free, open, transparent, equitable, and rule-based multilateral trading system. He emphasized the need to strengthen ASEAN-led multilateral trade frameworks, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) and the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP).

The Prime Minister also expressed support for initiatives such as the ASEAN-Japan Next Generation Automotive Industry Co-Creation Initiative and the Japanese Prime Minister's plan to raise US $35 billion over five years through public-private partnerships in ASEAN. These initiatives will align with the Royal Government of Cambodia's priority political programs, particularly focusing on improving livelihoods, creating new opportunities, and generating employment.

The Summit provided an opportunity for heads of state and government to review the last 50 years of ASEAN-Japan relations. They particularly highlighted the successful implementation of the Declaration, Vision, and Implementation Plan of the Strategic Partnership adopted in 2013.

In a significant step, the ASEAN-Japan Anniversary Summit adopted two crucial documents as orientation for future cooperation: the Joint Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation: A Trusted Partner and the Implementation Plan of the Joint Vision Statement. These documents set the direction for stronger cooperation over the next decade, promoting peace, joint development, and sustainable development in the ASEAN-Japan relationship.

The Summit marked the opening of a new chapter in ASEAN-Japan relations, aiming for mutual progress and prosperity.