Phnom penh: The National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia held a farewell reception on Tuesday evening for delegates attending the 16th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Caucus, marking the successful conclusion of the two-day meeting in Phnom Penh. Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of Cambodia, delivered farewell remarks at the reception, expressing appreciation for the active participation and contributions of AIPA Member and Observer Parliaments, as well as the AIPA Secretariat.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Khuon Sudary conveyed her heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to all distinguished delegates who supported the 16th AIPA Caucus meeting. During the meeting, delegates reviewed country reports on the implementation of AIPA resolutions and exchanged views on enhancing parliamentary diplomacy for peace and regional cooperation. Youth engagement was also highlighted through the AIPA Roadshow, which aimed to amplify the voices of young people in ASEAN community-building efforts.

Samdech Khuon Sudary emphasized the importance of involving young people, stating, ‘We engaged our young people through the AIPA Roadshow because their voices are important towards the realisation of a people-centred ASEAN.’ At the reception, the Cambodian parliamentary leader underscored the importance of friendship and mutual understanding in promoting peace and sustainable development among ASEAN nations. She likened the regional journey to the Mekong River that flows through Cambodia.

She noted, ‘Just like the Mekong River, our journey in ASEAN and AIPA has had many turns-sometimes smooth, sometimes rough. But like the river-it keeps flowing-and we keep moving forward, growing stronger and more united.’ Looking ahead, Samdech Khuon Sudary mentioned that the ideas and discussions from the 16th AIPA Caucus will contribute to preparations for the upcoming 46th AIPA General Assembly, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in September.

‘AIPA is part of a bigger effort. We are becoming more active, not just talking and talking but we are taking action and making sure our promises become real,’ she stated. The event concluded with a toast to the continued friendship and cooperation among AIPA members, and wishes for safe travels to all international delegates.