International Business News – On the occasion of ASEAN’s 55th anniversary, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen called on member states to cooperate to strengthen the resilience of sustained economic growth, especially prioritizing the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
As the rotating chairman of the ASEAN summit this year, Hun Sen pointed out in his ASEAN Day message that ASEAN will continue to face many pressing security challenges. “If we do not have the capacity to deal with them properly, these issues will be able to undermine the peace and stability of the entire region.”
Hun Sen pointed out that ASEAN’s long-term growth and prosperity will depend on the resilience of regional economic recovery and growth, investing more resources to promote industrial transformation, digitization, innovation, integration into global supply chains, digital economy and e-commerce.
Hun Sen believes that ASEAN countries should also build a more dynamic and harmonious ASEAN community, provide more protection for migrant workers, increase support for a green and inclusive development agenda, and achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“In the era of the 4th industrial revolution, we have no choice but to help women digitally transform and strengthen youth entrepreneurship.”
Hun Sen also stressed that the implementation of the RCEP agreement should be a priority as it can stimulate economic recovery, create jobs and strengthen regional supply chains.
“As the ASEAN Chair in 2022, Cambodia will work closely with RCEP member countries to fully and effectively implement the agreement and facilitate cross-border trade.”
Hun Sen also said that Cambodia will also further promote the building process of the ASEAN community, and at the same time strengthen the cooperative relationship with dialogue partners. Currently, ASEAN has established comprehensive strategic partnerships with China and Australia.
Hun Sen is confident that with enhanced capabilities, solidarity and friendly relations, ASEAN will be able to overcome many difficulties and benefit the people of all countries and the entire region.
It is worth mentioning that Cambodia joined ASEAN in 1999 and was the last member state to join ASEAN.