AKP Phnom Penh, August 7, 2026 -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. Prak Sokhonn has reaffirmed Cambodia's unwavering commitment to strengthening ASEAN's unity, resilience and centrality, while calling for the faithful implementation of the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) to safeguard regional peace and stability.

In a message marking the 59th Anniversary of ASEAN on Aug. 7, H.E. Prak Sokhonn extended his warm congratulations to all ASEAN Member States and the peoples of the region. He noted that this year also commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the TAC as ASEAN advances under the Philippines' Chairmanship with the theme, "Navigating Our Future, Together."

The Foreign Minister highlighted ASEAN's transformation over nearly six decades from a region marked by division and uncertainty into one characterised by dialogue, cooperation and shared prosperity. Guided by the ASEAN Charter and the TAC, he said, ASEAN has become an indispensable platform for promoting regional peace, stability and cooperation.

He stressed that the TAC has served as a common framework for peaceful relations among states over the past five decades, adding that the growing number of countries seeking to accede to the treaty reflects international confidence in ASEAN's longstanding principles and values.

At the same time, H.E. Prak Sokhonn cautioned that the world is facing increasing uncertainty amid the resurgence of armed conflicts, rising geopolitical tensions and growing pressure on international law and multilateralism. He underscored that peace is fragile and requires continuous effort, restraint, inclusive dialogue and unwavering adherence to the rule of law.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasised that ASEAN's credibility rests on its commitment to the TAC's core principles, including mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the renunciation of the threat or use of force, and effective cooperation. He said ASEAN Member States share the responsibility not only to reaffirm these principles but also to ensure they are consistently respected and implemented.

Referring to the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, H.E. Prak Sokhonn said the issue should not be viewed solely as a bilateral matter because it directly concerns the fundamental principles enshrined in both the ASEAN Charter and the TAC.

He reiterated that only a just, peaceful and lasting solution can enable the peoples of Cambodia and Thailand to live side by side in peace, stability and shared prosperity. Cambodia, he added, continues to call for the immediate, full and effective implementation of the Joint Statement of Dec. 27, 2025, particularly the prompt resumption of the Joint Boundary Commission's survey and demarcation work, as well as the safe, dignified and unhindered return of displaced civilians to their homes and normal livelihoods.

Looking ahead, H.E. Prak Sokhonn stressed that ASEAN must remain proactive in addressing emerging challenges, saying the grouping should not merely respond to change but help shape it. He underscored that ASEAN Centrality must be reflected in greater unity, coherence, responsiveness and a steadfast commitment to delivering meaningful outcomes for its peoples.

As an ASEAN Member State since 1999, Cambodia remains firmly committed to strengthening the Association's unity, resilience and relevance while upholding the ASEAN Charter and the TAC in both principle and practice, he said.

The Foreign Minister concluded by calling on governments, businesses, academia, civil society, youth and local communities to strengthen ASEAN's shared identity and collective responsibility for the region's future. He also urged ASEAN members to renew their determination to translate the enduring principles of the TAC into practical action to preserve lasting peace and cooperation for future generations.

By C. Nika