AKP Phnom Penh, July 15, 2025 --

H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, delivered keynote remarks at the 16th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Caucus, held here on July 15, highlighting the indispensable role of parliamentarians in advancing peace, stability, and inclusive development across Southeast Asia.

Hosted under the theme “Peace Through Dialogue: The Parliamentary Path Forward,” the Caucus convened at the National Assembly Palace in Phnom Penh, bringing together parliamentary delegates from ASEAN Member States and observer parliaments.

In his keynote address, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn commended the National Assembly of Cambodia for hosting the event and for choosing a timely and relevant theme. He emphasised that dialogue, diplomacy and multilateralism are essential components in the pursuit of lasting peace.

“The parliamentary path forward represents more than legislative processes. It embodies the democratic principle that lasting solutions emerge from dialogue and meaningful participation,” he said.

Referring to Cambodia’s transformation from conflict to reconciliation, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn said that peace goes beyond the absence of war, and must be grounded in justice, inclusiveness and participatory governance. He described the AIPA Caucus as a critical platform for fostering mutual respect and peaceful resolution of challenges within the region.

The Secretary-General highlighted the importance of AIPA in aligning national legislation with ASEAN’s regional frameworks. He noted that ASEAN’s projected economic growth of 4.7 percent in both 2025 and 2026, along with deepening regional integration, calls for robust legislative support, especially in the areas of digital trade, sustainable finance and green technologies.

Dr. Kao Kim Hourn also underscored the need for coordinated parliamentary responses to transnational threats, including cybercrime, disinformation and emerging social vulnerabilities. He encouraged AIPA to continue promoting youth and women’s participation in legislative processes and reaffirmed the value of inclusive development across ASEAN societies.

Calling for stronger cooperation, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn urged AIPA to deepen its engagement with ASEAN institutions and external partners in implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. He also welcomed AIPA’s involvement of Timor-Leste in its processes, in line with ASEAN’s decision to admit the country as its 11th member later this year.

“As we move forward with the new ASEAN Community Vision 2045, let us continue to build a peaceful, prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive ASEAN,” he said. “With shared determination and a whole-of-ASEAN approach, I am confident we can create a better future for all our citizens.”

By Chea Vannak