Phnom Penh, 23 November 2024 – The Secretary-General of ASEAN has expressed deep appreciation and praise for the National Assembly of Cambodia hosting the 11th Plenary Session of the International Parliament for Tolerance and Peace (IPTP). 

In a meeting on Saturday with Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, His Excellency Dr. Kao Kim Hourn  said the meeting was expected to play a crucial role in fostering a culture of dialogue. It would also advance efforts to preserve peace and security for people, both regionally and globally, particularly amid the current complex and high-risk geopolitical tensions, he said.

The Secretary-General said the IPTP Plenary Session – which will introduce a Peace Charter – was an opportunity for the global community to draw valuable lessons from Cambodia’s remarkable journey toward peace and national reconciliation. 

Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed her deep gratitude to the Secretary-General for attending the Plenary Session scheduled to open Sunday.

She said the Peace Charter was a visionary initiative of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate and former prime minister, whose decades-long efforts to restore peace and unity to Cambodia continue to inspire the region and the world. She also commended the outstanding leadership and diplomatic acumen of the Secretary-General whose tenure has brought ASEAN continued success.

Samdech Khuon Sudary noted that, under the guidance of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, ASEAN and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, representing the people of Southeast Asia, have been invigorated through closer collaboration and regular dialogue. These efforts have made ASEAN more dynamic and cohesive, she said.

The National Assembly President said the Secretary General’s presence at the IPTP meeting underscored ASEAN’s strong support, reinforcing its role as a vibrant and dynamic regional institution.

During their talks, Samdech Khuon Sudary and the Secretary General exchanged views on the political, social, economic, and international security landscapes. The Secretary General also presented ASEAN’s achievements and future perspectives, providing valuable insights to the President of the National Assembly.