AKP Phnom Penh, July 22, 2026 --

Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Prak Sokhonn, reaffirmed the Kingdom's commitment to strengthening ASEAN unity, regional integration, and the peaceful settlement of disputes during the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) and the Extended Informal Consultation on the Implementation of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC), held in Manila, the Philippines, on July 21.

During the meeting, H.E. Prak Sokhonn stressed that the evolving geopolitical and geoeconomic environment requires ASEAN to deepen regional integration, strengthen strategic coordination, and reinforce community-building across the Association's three pillars.

The Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to achieving a just, peaceful, and lasting resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, underscoring the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejecting the threat or use of force, and promoting the peaceful settlement of disputes as fundamental principles for preserving regional peace, stability, and a rules-based regional order.

The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted energy security as a strategic priority for ASEAN. He called for accelerating the operationalisation of the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, advancing the ASEAN Power Grid, increasing investment in renewable energy, and strengthening regional cooperation to ensure affordable, secure, and sustainable energy supplies across the region.

On ASEAN's external relations, H.E. Prak Sokhonn expressed support for adopting the Revised Guidelines to provide a clear, criteria-based framework for engagement with both existing and prospective partners. He also encouraged ASEAN to pursue a more strategic and proactive approach to expanding and strengthening its external partnerships and welcomed Türkiye as ASEAN's newest Dialogue Partner, expressing confidence that the country would make meaningful contributions to regional stability and prosperity.

Regarding Myanmar, H.E. Prak Sokhonn noted the progress report presented by the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair on implementing the 5PC. He reaffirmed that the 5PC remains ASEAN's principal framework for supporting Myanmar in resolving its political crisis through a Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led process.

The Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister also commended the Philippines, as ASEAN Chair, and its Special Envoy for their proactive leadership in advancing the implementation of the 5PC through sustained engagement. He further emphasised that the informal meeting with Myanmar's Foreign Minister had provided an opportunity for frank and open exchanges on how ASEAN could further support Myanmar, expressing hope that the positive momentum would lead to greater progress.

By Heng Panha