Govt marks ASEM anniversary, restates global partnership
Montage shows Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Prak Sokhonn delivering a message on Asia-Europe Meeting Day. KT/Heng Chivoan
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Synopsis: Thirty years after its inception, the intergovernmental forum linking two continents continues its mission to foster collaboration despite growing instability around the world.
Cambodia on Sunday marked ASEM Day 2026, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) and highlighting its dedication to bolstering ties between the two continents amidst mounting global uncertainties.
In a message issued on March 1, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Prak Sokhonn described the forum as a vital bridge between two dynamic and diverse regions.
“ASEM Day commemorates the launch of a unique intergovernmental forum connecting two dynamic and diverse regions of the world,” he said, extending greetings on behalf of the Royal Government to the peoples of Asia and Europe, wishing for peace and sustainable development.
Established in 1996, ASEM brings together 53 partners across the two continents. According to Sokhonn, these partners collectively account for more than half of the world’s GDP, population, trade and tourism, underlining the forum’s global relevance.
Over the past 30 years, ASEM has functioned as a platform for dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding, structured around three main pillars: political dialogue, economic cooperation and socio-cultural exchange. Its informality and flexibility have enabled frank discussions, trust-building and practical collaboration among member states and institutions.
Sokhonn said that ASEM remains highly pertinent in today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, where challenges such as climate change, digital transformation and public health resilience transcend national borders and require collective responses.
“This year’s ASEM Day is not only a celebration of past achievements, but also a restatement of our shared commitment to multilateralism, inclusive growth and a rules-based international order,” he said.
He added that Asia and Europe, working together, can serve as a powerful force for peace, stability and prosperity amid geopolitical tensions and economic shifts.
Beyond high-level summits, the deputy prime minister said ASEM’s broader societal impact. He said the forum’s true strength is reflected in the connections forged among students, academics, businesses, parliamentarians and civil society.
Through initiatives promoting educational exchanges, innovation partnerships and cultural dialogue, ASEM has strengthened people-to-people ties and deepened mutual respect and understanding between the two regions’ diverse societies.
As Cambodia joins fellow partners in observing ASEM Day 2026, Sokhonn called for renewed solidarity to harness shared strengths—including innovation, diversity, resilience, and creativity—to build a future that is sustainable and peaceful for generations to come.
-Khmer Times-
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