Cambodia promotes dialogue on Global South, Japan–ASEAN ties

PHNOM PENH, Mar 20, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is pushing policy dialogue on the growing influence of the Global South and its impact on Japan–ASEAN cooperation, a leading analyst said Wednesday.

Chheng Kimlong, president of the Asian Vision Institute, spoke at the launch of The Rise of the Global South and Its Implications for Japan–ASEAN Partnership, a book aimed at fostering exchange among researchers, policymakers and business leaders.

“The Global South is expanding rapidly and now represents around 80 to 85 percent of the world’s population, making it a key force shaping regional and global order,” he said.

The publication reflects collaborative research across ASEAN and seeks to amplify Cambodian voices in regional debates, Kimlong added. He stressed the need for vibrant intellectual dialogue to navigate shifting geopolitical, economic and security challenges.

Speakers also highlighted the long-standing ASEAN–Japan partnership, which has evolved into a strategic relationship underpinning economic cooperation and regional stability.

Kimlong said deeper engagement with Japan would bolster resilience, strengthen supply chains and promote peace. He noted that Tokyo’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific vision aligns with ASEAN’s Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, opening space for greater coordination.

Officials said such initiatives are vital for Cambodia and ASEAN to position themselves amid global shifts and seize opportunities from the rise of the Global South.