Phnom Penh, March 27, 2024 - Cambodia marked its presence at the 31st ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting, showcasing its commitment to regional socio-cultural development. The event, held in Luang Prabang province, Laos, on March 24, brought together ASCC ministers, senior officials, delegates from Timor-Leste, the ASEAN Secretariat, and various stakeholders to discuss the community’s progress and future directions.

Leading the Cambodian delegation, Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, extended his congratulations to Laos on its successful term as ASEAN chair and for launching the ASCC data monitoring and evaluation system. Dr. Naron emphasized the critical role of education, 21st-century skills, and digital competencies in navigating the era of artificial intelligence.

Dr. Naron also highlighted Cambodia's efforts to advance the agenda on women, peace, and security across ASEAN, urging member states to integrate these priorities into their national policies. Furthermore, he voiced Cambodia's support for several key initiatives, including the framework agreement on the ASEAN Public Health Emergency Coordination System (APHECS), the Vang Vieng Declaration on Small and Medium-sized Cultural Enterprises, and the regional pathway towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Cambodia's active participation in the ASCC Council Meeting underscores its dedication to fostering socio-cultural collaboration within ASEAN, aiming to create a more interconnected and resilient community.