AKP Phnom Penh, November 14, 2025 -- Cambodia’s Senior Minister Ly Thuch has stated that the leadership vision of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet is strategically aligned with the goals of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, positioning the nation as a proactive contributor to the region's future.

The Senior Minister, who also chairs the National ESCAP Committee, delivered these remarks while presiding over the opening of the 2025 KACPE International Public Policy Symposium on Thursday afternoon. 

The event, held at the Sangri-La Phnom Penh Hotel, convened under the theme “Advancing Together: Korea-ASEAN Strategic Alliance Toward ASEAN Vision 2045.”

The symposium was co-organised by Cambodia's National ESCAP Committee and the Korea Research Initiatives of the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia, with support from the Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation and the Korea Foundation of the Republic of Korea.

Senior Minister Ly Thuch emphasised that under Prime Minister Hun Manet’s guidance, Cambodia has strengthened its role in driving regional integration and innovation. He noted that the country’s focus on digital transformation, sustainable development, and deepening strategic partnerships—particularly with the Republic of Korea—directly supports the broader objectives of the ASEAN Community.

“The Prime Minister’s forward-looking agenda is in full correspondence with both the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the Cambodia-South Korea long-term strategic partnership,” Ly Thuch stated.

The Senior Minister outlined a vision of ASEAN integration evolving beyond traditional cooperation towards a more unified and resilient community. He pointed to Cambodia's own developmental journey as evidence of the region's potential, highlighting its transition from a challenging history to achieving national stability and significant economic growth.

“If Cambodia can do it, ASEAN can do it too,” he affirmed.

H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch further stressed the strategic importance of the ASEAN-Korea partnership, describing it as a conduit for unlocking immense potential. He characterised South Korea as a global hub for technology and innovation and ASEAN as one of its largest and most dynamic markets.

Acknowledging global challenges such as geopolitical tensions, protectionism, and the digital divide, the Senior Minister called for intensified collaboration among ASEAN member states. He urged partners to prioritise expanding strategic alliances, promoting trade and investment, and bridging digital infrastructure gaps.

In closing, he expressed his appreciation to the co-organisers and supporters of the symposium, specifically thanking UNSW’s Korea Research Initiatives for fostering critical dialogue between Australia, South Korea, and ASEAN, and acknowledging the Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation and the Korea Foundation for their pivotal support.

ASEAN Community Vision 2045 is the forthcoming long-term roadmap for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, aimed at fostering a more integrated, peaceful, and prosperous regional community over the next two decades.

By K. Rithy Reak