PHNOM PENH, July 25, 2024 — Cambodia played a pivotal role at the recent Commission of the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) and ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Vientiane, Laos. Deputy Prime Minister Sok Chenda Sophea, who represented Cambodia, emphasized the nation's commitment to regional peace and the prevention of nuclear proliferation.

The SEANWFZ meeting reaffirmed the importance of keeping Southeast Asia free from nuclear weapons as a significant step towards regional peace and stability, aligning with the goals of the ASEAN Charter. During the meeting, member states were urged to fully implement the SEANWFZ Treaty through a new action plan set for 2023-2027.

The discussions also extended to the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Interface with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), where the promotion of human rights in the region was a focal point. The ministers acknowledged AICHR’s progress and discussed future strategies to enhance human rights protections under the Community Vision 2045.

Deputy Prime Minister Sok Chenda Sophea met with various ASEAN leaders to discuss advancing mutual interests, including enhancing political, economic, and socio-cultural cooperation. The meetings underscored Cambodia’s integral role in fostering a collaborative approach to address regional challenges, including human rights issues and regional security.

The series of meetings concluded with a commitment to further strengthen ASEAN’s unity and integration efforts, aiming for a more resilient and connected Southeast Asia.