PHNOM PENH, July 29, 2024 — At the recent 12th Mekong-Republic of Korea (ROK) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Vientiane, Laos, Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sok Chenda Sophea, identified five critical areas for future collaboration between the Mekong nations and the Republic of Korea.

During the meeting, Minister Sok highlighted the priority areas as: Human Resources Development, Climate Change Adaptation and Natural Resource Management, Agriculture and Rural Development, Addressing Non-traditional Security Issues, and Enhancing People-to-People Exchanges. These priorities aim to foster inclusive and sustainable development throughout the sub-region.

A press release from the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation noted the satisfaction with the significant progress made under the Mekong-ROK Cooperation framework established in 2011. Particularly, the successful implementation of the Plan of Action 2021-2025 has significantly contributed to enhancing sub-regional connectivity, promoting competitiveness, and reducing development disparities.

The forum also celebrated the success of the 11th Mekong-ROK Business Forum held in Seoul last November, co-chaired by Cambodia and South Korea, which has deepened economic ties, trade, and investment between the Mekong countries and South Korea. Looking forward, the delegates expressed anticipation for the forthcoming business forum in Vientiane, set to be co-chaired by Laos and South Korea.

The Ministers reaffirmed their dedication to advancing the Mekong-ROK Cooperation on the foundational pillars of People, Prosperity, and Peace, alongside the seven priority areas outlined in the Mekong-Han Declaration.

Minister Sok Chenda Sophea acknowledged South Korea's pivotal role as a development partner, appreciating its substantial official development assistance and contributions to the Mekong-ROK Cooperation Fund, which is set to increase to US $10 million by 2027. He also expressed Cambodia's gratitude for South Korea's continued support in mine action initiatives, aiding Cambodia's efforts towards achieving the 18th Sustainable Development Goal.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on various regional and international issues of mutual concern, further cementing the cooperative ties between the Mekong nations and the Republic of Korea.