Phnom Penh, March 29, 2024 - Hun Sen, President of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King of Cambodia, has expressed admiration for China's instrumental role in the development efforts spanning Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Delivering the keynote speech at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 in Hainan, People’s Republic of China, on March 28, the former Prime Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and security in Asia to facilitate poverty alleviation and sustainable development for shared prosperity. He noted the region's significant strides in development, which have positioned Asia as a beacon of growth, especially amidst a challenging global economic climate. With its robust economy, Asia is expected to account for 60 percent of global GDP growth in the coming year, underscoring its pivotal role on the world stage.

Hun Sen advocated for cooperation and unity in the region, emphasizing adherence to multilateralism and the rule of law. "Our region's actions must be guided by the principles of multilateralism, respecting the rule of law universally, not just among a select group of countries," he stated. He further called for efforts towards deeper integration and connectivity, opposing any moves towards disconnection and isolation.

Highlighting the impact of the Belt and Road Initiative, Hun Sen credited the project with the construction of essential public infrastructure across continents, vital for development and poverty reduction in beneficiary countries, including Cambodia. "China's model of growth has fostered collective prosperity, steering clear of self-centered development strategies," he remarked.

Hun Sen urged the global community to foster inclusive growth within a law-based international order, ensuring equal opportunities for all countries, regardless of size, to thrive. "Our collective duty is to safeguard multilateralism that upholds community interests, paving the way for global peace and improved living standards," he concluded.