ASEAN and the EU must cooperate closely to ensure global order based on law, environment, openness, transparency, and mutual benefit as two regions based on legality and accountability, Prime Minister Hun Sen said.
At the 45th anniversary of ASEAN-EU Dialogue Relations at the ASEAN-EU Commemorative Summit, Hun Sen said that multilateralism has been under severe pressure at the time the Memorial Summit was conducted.
Even more concerning is the fact that certain governments' flagrant transgression of international rules, conventions, and principles has put world peace in danger, he added.
“In order to go forward, I think ASEAN and the EU must collaborate closely to uphold an international system founded on the rule of law, inclusivity, transparency, and mutual benefit,” he said. “As a two-party bloc based on the rule of law and accountability, ASEAN and the EU must protect and promote the UN Charter and its laws, norms, and principles," he said.
“These are the cornerstones for establishing peace and stability, as well as enhancing the standard of living and well-being of people in our region and around the world,” he added.
Hun Sen said he hopes that a shared approach of dialogue and consultation will lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes.
“With personal experiences and observations of the lengthy and sad battles in Cambodia, I never thought that we can achieve peace by violence or the fear of war,” he said.
"I am confident that today's conversations will enable us to transform our shared spirit into a more practical vision that will benefit our area and the world for a very long time,” he added. “I look forward to a frank, honest, and constructive discussion.”
Additionally, he highlighted that the spirit, conscience, and desire for peace and prosperity in the two regions have resulted in establishing a successful strategic partnership, with the 2023–2027 Action Plan.
It covers a wide range of potential areas of cooperation under the three ASEAN pillars in a clear and thorough manner, he added.
