ASEAN Leaders Unite: Cambodian PM Calls for Stronger Economic and Security Collaboration

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (Oct.28,2025) — Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet attended several key regional summits on Oct. 27, 2025, including the 26th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit, the 28th ASEAN Plus Three Summit, the 5th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Leaders’ Summit, the 20th East Asia Summit, and the 15th ASEAN-United Nations Summit.

During the ASEAN-ROK Summit, leaders committed to enhancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through the implementation of the ASEAN-ROK Plan of Action (2026-2030). They emphasized the importance of economic cooperation under the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Area and RCEP, while also supporting the ASEAN digital agenda.

Samdech Thipadei praised the ROK for its support of Cambodia’s digital transformation, particularly through the establishment of the ASEAN-ROK Digital Academy. He highlighted ongoing collaboration on initiatives like the ASEAN Power Grid 2045 and efforts in creative industries.

The Prime Minister called for strengthened regional cooperation to combat transnational crimes, including cybercrime and terrorism. He noted that Cambodian National Police are working closely with their ROK counterparts to ensure security in the region.

At the ASEAN Plus Three Summit, leaders discussed economic challenges and reaffirmed their commitment to a transparent, rules-based multilateral trading system. Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet emphasized the importance of APT cooperation for peace and stability in East Asia and urged leveraging existing free trade agreements.

Samdech Thipadei welcomed enhancements to the Chiang Mai Initiative as a financial safety net and highlighted the potential of the digital economy, advocating for the Digital Economy Framework Agreement as a driver for growth. Additionally, he called for improved dialogue and cooperation in combating transnational crime.