As the ASEAN Chair 2022, Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen reaffirmed here this evening that Cambodia and ASEAN have adhered to the political agenda of unity, centrality and independence.
Speaking at a press conference here at the Peace Palace on Nov. 13 on the fruitful outcomes of 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits, Samdech Techo Hun Sen underlined that Cambodia and ASEAN will not take any side.
“Cambodia and ASEAN are not to choose China or the U.S., and both China and the U.S have told us that there is no need to choose. We have confirmed our position and what is happening in Phnom Penh is clear for that,” he said.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen continued that the geopolitical tensions must continue to be examined, and it must be based on the stance of each country. For ASEAN, it has its own independence and centrality with no bias.
“What is happening in Phnom Penh is clear, our external partners, no matter how big or small, have come to ASEAN. Cambodia is small, but we have the ability to invite the Presidents and Prime Ministers of different nations to give a speech in accordance with our arrangement, this is the independence of ASEAN,” he explained.
According to Samdech Techo Hun Sen, a total of 29 Heads of State/Government and leaders of international institutions gathered at the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Phnom Penh from Nov. 8-9, 2022.