(Manila): Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn highlighted energy security as a strategic priority for ASEAN during the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) and the Extended Informal Consultation on the Implementation of the Five-Point Consensus held in Manila, Philippines on 21 July 2026.

He called for the accelerated operationalisation of the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, the continued advancement of the ASEAN Power Grid, greater investment in renewable energy, and enhanced regional cooperation to ensure affordable, secure, and sustainable energy for the region.

During the meeting, the minister underscored that the evolving geopolitical and geoeconomic landscape requires ASEAN to deepen regional integration, strengthen strategic coordination, and reinforce community-building across all three pillars.

Minister Prak Sokhonn also reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to a just, peaceful, and lasting resolution of disputes based on international law, emphasising that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the renunciation of the threat or use of force, and the peaceful settlement of disputes remain fundamental principles for maintaining regional peace, stability, and the rules-based regional order.

With regard to ASEAN's external relations, the minister expressed his support for adopting the revised guidelines, noting that they provide a clear, criteria-based framework for engagement with existing and prospective partners.

Cambodian foreign minister also emphasised that ASEAN should take a more strategic and proactive approach to expanding and strengthening its external partnerships.

In this spirit, Minister Prak Sokhonn welcomed Türkiye as the newest ASEAN Dialogue Partner and expressed confidence that Türkiye would make meaningful contributions to ASEAN's efforts to promote regional stability and prosperity.
=FRESH NEWS