ASEM’s Commitment to Peace and Shared Prosperity

Phnom Penh – In a statement released on March 2, 2025, Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn emphasized the critical need for the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) to continue its dedication to peace, sustainable development, and shared prosperity among its partners. Sokhonn, also the deputy prime minister, marked ASEM Day by noting the organization’s nearly three-decade history of fostering cooperation between Asia and Europe.

Established in 1996, ASEM has grown into a significant global platform. With 53 partners, it represents a substantial portion of the world’s economy and population:

• Approximately 65% of the global GDP
• 60% of the world’s population
• 75% of global tourism
• 68% of global trade

ASEM’s key Achievements and Principles

ASEM operates on the core principles of consensus, equal partnership, mutual respect, and shared interests. These principles have enabled the organization to achieve significant milestones across various sectors. According to Sokhonn, “Built on the principles of consensus, equal partnership, mutual respect, and shared interests, ASEM has achieved significant milestones.”

ASEM’s progress spans political dialogue, economic cooperation, trade, investment, and collaborative efforts to address global challenges. These challenges include:

• Advancing connectivity
• Addressing climate change
• Counter-terrorism efforts
• Managing irregular migration
• Enhancing maritime security
• Strengthening cybersecurity

The Importance of ASEM in a Turbulent World

Minister Sokhonn highlighted the increasing relevance of ASEM’s resilience amid growing geopolitical tensions and conflicts. “It is indeed essential that ASEM continues to strive for peace, sustainable development, and shared prosperity for all its partners,” he stated, underscoring the need for continued collaboration. ASEM serves as a vital platform for multilateralism,providing a space for nations to address current and future global challenges collectively.

Cambodia’s Continued Engagement

Cambodia remains committed to the ASEM process and actively contributes to strengthening Asia-Europe relations. “Cambodia will continue to actively engage in the ASEM process, contributing to the ongoing strengthening of Asia-Europe relations,” sokhonn affirmed.

This commitment underscores Cambodia’s belief in the power of multilateralism and international cooperation to address complex global issues.

Understanding ASEM’s Role in a Changing World: An Interview with Dr. Anya Sharma

We sat down with Dr. Anya Sharma, a Senior Fellow at the Global Policy Institute and expert on international relations, to discuss the pivotal role of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) in fostering global peace, sustainable development, and shared prosperity. Dr. Sharma offers valuable insights into ASEM’s achievements, challenges, and future direction.

The Interview: ASEM and Global Collaboration

Archyde: Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us. ASEM has been around for nearly three decades; could you briefly explain its core mission and why it’s so vital today?

Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me. ASEM, established in 1996, serves as a crucial bridge between Asia and Europe. Its core mission is to foster dialog and cooperation across a wide range of areas, from economic to political, to address shared challenges and promote mutual prosperity. Its importance now is amplified by increasing geopolitical tensions and the urgent need for multilateral solutions to global issues like climate change and security threats.

Archyde: ASEM operates on principles like consensus and mutual respect. How do these principles translate into tangible achievements, especially when dealing with such diverse partners?

Dr. Sharma: These principles are fundamental to ASEM’s success. They create a platform built on trust, enabling partners to engage in constructive dialogue even when they have differing perspectives. This has led to important achievements in areas like advancing connectivity through infrastructure projects, collaborative efforts in counter-terrorism, and joint strategies to manage irregular migration. The emphasis on shared interests allows for focused cooperation, yielding practical results despite the diversity.

Archyde: Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to ASEM. What does this continued engagement signify for the broader Asia-Europe relationship?

Dr.Sharma: Cambodia’s commitment, as highlighted by Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, underscores the importance of ASEM as a vital platform for multilateralism. It signals a belief in the power of international collaboration to address complex global issues. For the broader Asia-Europe relationship, it reinforces the commitment to strengthening ties and working together towards shared goals, demonstrating the enduring relevance of ASEM.

Archyde: ASEM addresses challenges like climate change, cybersecurity, and maritime security. In your opinion, what is the most pressing challenge ASEM needs to prioritize in the next few years, and why?

Dr. Sharma: That’s a critical question. While all the identified challenges are significant, I believe advancing cybersecurity needs particular attention. The increasing reliance on digital infrastructure across all sectors makes us vulnerable to cyber threats that can destabilize economies and compromise national security. ASEM needs to strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity, fostering information sharing and joint response mechanisms to safeguard digital infrastructure and promote a secure cyberspace.

Archyde: dr. sharma, what role can ordinary citizens play in supporting ASEM’s goals? What are your final thoughts on the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM)?

Dr.Sharma: Ordinary citizens can play a huge role by staying informed, engaging in discussions about global challenges, and supporting initiatives that promote international cooperation. ASEM’s success depends not only on governmental efforts but also on the understanding and support of the people it serves.ASEM remains a crucial platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation between Asia and Europe, addressing shared challenges, and promoting mutual prosperity. As geopolitical tensions rise,its role becomes even more vital.

Archyde: Dr. sharma, thank you for your insightful commentary. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.

Dr. Sharma: The pleasure was all mine.