AKP Phnom Penh, July 11, 2026 —

The 2nd ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave concluded in Phnom Penh on Friday, reaffirming ASEAN and India's commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and advancing women's leadership in science, technology and innovation (STI).

Held under the theme "Building an Inclusive Science, Technology & Innovation Community," the conclave brought together 135 delegates, including 90 women scientists and researchers from India and ASEAN Member States, to promote scientific collaboration, strengthen women's participation in STEM, and accelerate the translation of research into practical solutions.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, H.E. HEM Vanndy, Cambodia’s Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, stated that investing in women is essential to building a more innovative and resilient future.

"As women are often the first and most influential mentors to our sons and daughters, empowering them creates lasting benefits for families and society. When society unleashes the potential of women in STEM or STI, we don't just empower individuals, but we unlock the keys to solving the most complex challenges facing humanity," Minister Vanndy said.

The conclave featured 10 thematic roundtable discussions and innovation pitching sessions, where 55 women scientists presented scalable scientific and technological solutions in areas including food security, sustainable energy, equitable education and emerging technologies.

The ASEAN and Indian women scientists also visited the Institute of Technology of Cambodia and the Royal University of Phnom Penh to explore opportunities for research collaboration and institutional partnerships.

India's Ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, said the conclave reflected the growing strength of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

"The ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave is a shining example of the growing breadth and depth of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," Ambassador Bawitlung said, highlighting continued cooperation in capacity building, innovation, research and educational exchanges.

ASEAN Secretary-General H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn added that Conclaves like this one will deepen our people-to-people ties and open new ground in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and sustainable development.

“It moves beyond dialogue to create greater exchange among our researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and youth, and to unlock new opportunities for inclusive, sustainable and prosperous growth for both ASEAN and India,” he stated.

The conclave concluded with a shared commitment to deepen regional scientific cooperation, strengthen professional networks, and create greater opportunities for women and girls to lead science, technology and innovation across the region.

AKP-MISTI