Phnom Penh (FN), Nov. 26 – Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen expressed his optimism that the outcome of the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM13) is prerequisite for intellectual contribution to promote multilateralism that will bring about a global peace and prosperity.

The premier chaired the closing of first plenary session of the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM13) held on 25-26 November 2021 via videoconference.

“The meeting pledged to further enhance ASEM's role to promote multilateralism and global governance, which the two regions need to address common issues,” the premier said.

In his closing remarks, the premier also highlighted that the COVID19 pandemic has inflicted unprecedented impacts on people’s lives and socio-economy. In order to address these challenges, the meeting agreed that solidarity, international cooperation, and the promotion of multilateralism are the key.

“Our ASEM-13 has set its objectives based on the principles of shared growth, sustainable development, and rules-based multilateralism. As an important multilateral platform linking Asia and Europe, ASEM is an essential and strong global force. In this spirit, ASEM’s cooperation and partnership for a solid and effective multilateralism and a rules-based international order should act as its guiding spirit."

ASEM leaders also pledged to promote low-carbon green growth to limit global warming to 1.5 degree Celsius and that can be made through providing technical and financial assistance to developing countries, the premier added.

Over the past 25 years, the meeting provided a solid foundation for the Asia-Europe countries to move towards a brighter, more inclusive and resilient future.

During the two-day summit, ASEM Leaders discuss the COVID19 and socio-economic recovery/development, which focuses on 1) addressing issues caused by COVID19; 2) advancing post-COVID19 socio-economic recovery for Shared Growth; and 3) rebuilding a Resilient Future.

Under Cambodia's Chairmanship, the ASEM13 will adopt three main outcome documents namely: (1) ASEM13 Chair's Statement; (2) Phnom Penh Statement on the Post-COVID-19 Socio-Economic Recovery; and (3) The Way Forward on ASEM Connectivity.
=FRESH NEWS