AKP Kunming , September 05, 2025 -- Cambodia highlighted the crucial role of media in promoting regional cooperation, mutual understanding, and sustainable development at the 2025 South and Southeast Asian Media Network (SSAMN) Annual Meeting, held today in Kunming, Yunnan province, China.

H.E. Chhean Leang, Secretary of State at the Cambodian Ministry of Information, delivered a keynote address at the event, which was organized by the Communist Party of China (CPC) Yunnan Provincial Committee and convened media representatives and government officials from across South and Southeast Asia.

In his remarks, H.E. Chhean Leang reaffirmed the strong bond between Cambodia and China, characterizing their relationship as a comprehensive strategic partnership and an "Ironclad Friendship." He lauded initiatives such as the six-pronged "Cambodia-China Diamond Hexagon" cooperation framework and the "2025 Cambodia-China Year of Tourism," citing them as examples of successful high-level diplomatic consensus.

The Secretary of State underscored the increasing global significance of the "Global South," positioning South and Southeast Asian nations as pivotal players in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and regional connectivity through media platforms. 

He commended SSAMN, which was founded in 2024, as a vital forum for collaboration and innovation among regional media stakeholders.

H.E. Chhean Leang also detailed Cambodia’s contributions to the network, including a media cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Yunnan authorities, the integration of Cambodian national media into the alliance, and joint initiatives like the "Cambodia-China Cultural Corridor" at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport and the "World Heritage Tour," which aims to boost regional tourism.

The 2025 SSAMN annual meeting serves as a key platform for leaders and representatives to strengthen media cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared development throughout the region. Founded in 2024, SSAMN's mission is to enhance media collaboration, advance joint production, and strengthen people-to-people ties to support regional integration through information sharing.

By PHENG Somany