AKP Phnom Penh, July 16, 2025 -- The 16th AIPA Caucus of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) fruitfully and successfully concluded on Wednesday at the National Assembly Palace in Phnom Penh, reaffirming the commitment of ASEAN Member Parliaments to promoting peace and cooperation through dialogue.

Held under the theme “Peace Through Dialogue: The Parliamentary Path Forward,” the four-day meeting brought together delegates from AIPA Member Parliaments, Observer Parliaments, and partner institutions for discussions on 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, and Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana, Second Vice-President of the Senate of Cambodia.

Hon. Mardani Ali Sera, representative of the House of Representatives of Indonesia, delivered an acceptance speech as the incoming host of the 17th AIPA Caucus. He extended appreciation to Cambodia for its warm hospitality and effective organisation of the event.

“Under the same sky, we ignite our shared hopes and commitments for a peaceful, resilient, and united ASEAN community,” Mardani said, inviting AIPA Member Parliaments to attend the next Caucus in Indonesia in 2026.

The programme continued with the official signing of the Report of the 16th AIPA Caucus, which reflected consensus on key issues, including gender equality, youth empowerment, climate resilience, and enhanced regional integration. The report will be submitted for approval at the 46th AIPA General Assembly, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in September.

Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the Senate of Cambodia, under the leadership of President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana, Second Vice-President of the Senate, expressed sincere appreciation to the National Assembly for its leadership in organizing the event and extending warm hospitality to all delegates.

He commended the productive outcomes of the Caucus and praised the spirit of solidarity and mutual respect demonstrated by all participants.

He confirmed that the Report of the 16th AIPA Caucus, signed during the ceremony, will be submitted for endorsement at the 46th AIPA General Assembly in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this September.

Reflecting on the four-day gathering, Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana highlighted the value of dialogue and exchange among parliamentarians. “Our member parliaments have clearly demonstrated an action-oriented and result-driven approach, underscoring both our individual contributions and our shared commitment.”

Addressing regional dynamics, Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana stressed the importance of ASEAN unity amid global uncertainties and shifting geopolitical landscapes. “ASEAN nations must stay united under the spirit of one vision, one identity, and one community.”

He further drew on the cultural ties of Southeast Asia, noting, “Though we come from different countries, we relate to one another like brothers and sisters. Unity can only be sustained if we work together through respect, dialogue, mutual agreement, and adherence to international law.”

Touching on sensitive bilateral issues, Hon. Dr. Thun Vathana referred to the Cambodia–Thailand border situation, stating: “Conflicts are sometimes unavoidable—even among brothers in the same house. But under the ASEAN spirit, we can resolve them through respectful dialogue and legal mechanisms. I do not consider this a major issue. With strong commitment from both sides, I believe a peaceful solution can be achieved.”

AKP-National Assembly