Phnom penh: The 16th AIPA Caucus of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) concluded at the National Assembly Palace in Phnom Penh, reaffirming ASEAN Member Parliaments' commitment to promoting peace and cooperation through dialogue.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the four-day meeting was held under the theme 'Peace Through Dialogue: The Parliamentary Path Forward' and brought together delegates from AIPA Member Parliaments, Observer Parliaments, and partner institutions to discuss regional priorities and parliamentary collaboration.
The closing ceremony was co-presided over by Hon. Dr. Kittisethabindit Cheam Yeap, First Vice-President of the National Assembly of Cambodia and Chairperson of the 16th AIPA Caucus, alongside Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana, Second Vice-President of the Senate of Cambodia. Hon. Mardani Ali Sera from the House of Representatives of Indonesia delivered an acceptance speech as the incoming host of the 17th AIPA Caucus, expressing gratitude for Cambodia's hospitality and organization of the event.
The official signing of the Report of the 16th AIPA Caucus marked the programme's continuation. The report, which includes consensus on key issues such as gender equality, youth empowerment, climate resilience, and regional integration, will be submitted for approval at the 46th AIPA General Assembly in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in September.
Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana, delivering closing remarks on behalf of the Senate of Cambodia, expressed appreciation for the National Assembly's leadership and hospitality. He praised the Caucus's productive outcomes and the spirit of solidarity and mutual respect among participants. The report signed during the ceremony will be submitted for endorsement at the forthcoming AIPA General Assembly.
Reflecting on the gathering, Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana emphasized the value of dialogue among parliamentarians and highlighted the action-oriented approach of member parliaments. He underscored the importance of ASEAN unity amid global uncertainties and shifting geopolitical landscapes, urging nations to stay united under a shared vision.
Addressing regional dynamics, Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana also touched on the Cambodia-Thailand border situation, advocating for resolution through respectful dialogue and legal mechanisms. He expressed confidence in achieving a peaceful solution with strong commitment from both sides.