AKP Phnom Penh, April 13, 2026 --

Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Prak Sokhonn, participated in the Second Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the Situation in the Middle East, held via videoconference on Monday afternoon.

The meeting welcomed the announcement of a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would be fully implemented and contribute to easing tensions in the region through dialogue and diplomacy.

ASEAN foreign ministers exchanged views on the broader implications of the Middle East conflict, particularly its impact on global energy and food security, supply chains, and transport routes. Discussions also focused on practical measures to strengthen ASEAN’s resilience, ensure stable supply systems, and maintain regional stability.

During the meeting, H.E. Prak Sokhonn emphasised the importance of maximising existing ASEAN frameworks to enhance energy cooperation. He highlighted initiatives such as accelerating the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline, strengthening the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, improving real-time data sharing, and bolstering contingency measures, including fuel reserves. He also underscored the need to advance the ASEAN Power Grid and promote energy diversification, including renewable energy sources.

On food security, he warned that the conflict could drive up energy and agricultural costs, disrupt fertiliser supply, and lead to shortages, higher prices, and reduced crop yields, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.

To address these challenges, he called for stronger regional coordination and preparedness, including effective use of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve and the ASEAN Food Security Information System, alongside improved cross-sector collaboration.

H.E. Prak Sokhonn reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to working closely with fellow ASEAN member states to strengthen collective resilience, while stressing the importance of continued diplomacy and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.

By C. Nika