AKP Phnom Penh, December 09, 2025 -- Cambodia’s National Assembly President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary today asserted that parliamentary diplomacy is assuming an increasingly pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding, strengthening confidence, and preventing conflicts at the regional and international levels.

The President made the remarks during a farewell meeting with H.E. Dr. Chem Widhya, Chairman of the Senate’s Commission on Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Information, ahead of his departure to take up his new post as Secretary-General of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA).

Samdech Khuon Sudary highlighted the growing importance of AIPA as a crucial platform for building trust, enhancing regional cooperation, and delivering tangible benefits to the citizens of ASEAN member states. She reaffirmed that parliamentary diplomacy is now central to advancing dialogue, understanding, and strengthening mechanisms that contribute to the prevention of disputes.

She further stressed the necessity of promoting a people-centred and rules-based ASEAN and expanding strategic partnerships with external stakeholders, including observer parliaments and global partners.

The meeting took place at the National Assembly Palace in Phnom Penh this morning. H.E. Dr. Widhya, who was accompanied by family and colleagues, is scheduled to assume office as the AIPA Secretary-General for a three-year term starting Jan. 1, 2026. The AIPA Secretariat is based in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Samdech Khuon Sudary extended congratulations to H.E. Dr. Widhya on his appointment, noting his candidacy was nominated by Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and subsequently received unanimous endorsement and approval by the 46th AIPA General Assembly held in Malaysia.

By K. Rithy Reak