Cambodia will host the 12th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) in November next year.

The event represents a significant milestone, showcasing the successful convergence of political parties from 52 Asian countries and partner institutions from various regions.

In a press statement, the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) noted that Chung Eui-yong, chairperson of the Standing Committee of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) and former South Korean foreign minister, visited the country from December 12-15 to discuss preparations for the upcoming gathering and to exchange viewpoints on politics and democracy and discuss the development of Cambodia. 

During his visit, Chung met with several key Cambodian figures, including former Prime Minister Hun Sen, president of the CPP; Khuon Sodary, president of the National Assembly and vice-president of the ICAPP; and Prime Minister Hun Manet, vice-president of the CPP.

He praised the CPP, specifically noting the significant contributions of Hun Sen’s long-term vision to the ICAPP. He recognised the conference’s evolution into a more influential and important political forum amid global geopolitical tensions since its establishment in 2000.

“The CPP has played a crucial role in uniting the ICAPP and the Asian Cultural Council [ACC], facilitating the connection of diverse cultures across Asia and the world through dialogue, mutual understanding and respect. This includes forming a significant partnership with UNESCO,” the press release stated.

“Hun Sen has delegated the responsibility of chairing the 12th General Assembly of the ICAPP to [Manet], the vice-president of the CPP,” it added.

It cited Manet as telling Chung that Cambodia had developed all sectors and recorded many achievements for the nation and its people, thanks to the government’s guarantee of peace, political stability and democracy.

“The ICAPP chair believes that [Cambodia] will continue to develop and achieve high-income status by 2050,” said the release.

Chung briefed Manet on the activities of the ICAPP, as it sought to foster cooperation and the exchange of viewpoints between political parties across Asia.

Manet congratulated him on his re-election as chair and thanked ICAPP for advocating for Cambodia’s democratic process, as well as for sending observers to monitor the recent general election.

“The presence of – and a statement by – ICAPP about the facts surrounding the way democratic rights were exercised in Cambodia contributed to protecting the legitimacy, fairness and sovereignty of our elections,” he said.

He added that the government would continue to actively work with ICAPP on joint missions across Asia. Under the leadership of Hun Sen, he noted, Cambodia achieved economic growth and alleviated poverty, while guaranteeing peace, stability and a strong democratic process.

He said the new government will continue to apply these principles and is also preparing to offer vocational training to around 1.5 million young people from poor and vulnerable households. The training will be free of charge, and monthly allowances will be provided to attendees.

Yang Peou, secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, noted that the party and the country’s adherence to democratic principles and regulations had garnered significant attention from other political parties.

“This recognition and the opportunity to chair the [assembly] for the second time are testaments to the international acclaim for the achievements of both the CPP and the Cambodian government,” he added.

Cambodia previously hosted the 6th General Assembly in 2020 in Phnom Penh under the leadership of the former prime minister.