Phnom Penh: H.E. Leng Peng Long, Secretary-General of the National Assembly of Cambodia, convened a meeting with H.E. Ermenegildo Kupa Lopes, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to Cambodia, at the National Assembly Palace on June 23. The discussions centered on enhancing parliamentary ties in anticipation of the upcoming 16th AIPA Caucus.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Leng Peng Long emphasized Cambodia’s preparations to host the 16th AIPA Caucus under the theme ‘Peace through Dialogue: The Parliamentary Path Forward,’ scheduled for July 14 to 17, 2025, in Phnom Penh. The meeting underscored the significance of fostering dialogue and collaboration among parliamentary members.
The Ambassador shared that H.E. Madam Maria Fernanda Lay, President of the National Parliament of Timor-Leste, is set to visit Cambodia in early July. This visit is expected to set the stage for Timor-Leste’s participation in the AIPA Caucus as an observer, aligning with its goal to attain full ASEAN membe
rship.
Preparations for H.E. Maria Fernanda Lay’s visit were thoroughly discussed, including a courtesy call on Cambodia’s top leadership and a bilateral meeting with Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of Cambodia. These engagements aim to enhance friendship, solidarity, and inter-parliamentary cooperation.
The Secretary-General reiterated Cambodia’s unwavering support for Timor-Leste’s full membership in ASEAN, a stance consistently backed by Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia. H.E. Ermenegildo Kupa Lopes expressed gratitude to Cambodia and Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen for their steadfast support and commitment to Timor-Leste’s ASEAN aspirations.
Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and parliamentary cooperation between Cambodia and Timor-Leste.