The president of the National Assembly (NA) has cited the Cambodia-Thailand Peace Agreement as an example of the necessity of protecting sovereignty based on international law, and in accordance with the UN Charter, during an international forum in Paris.
NA president Khuon Sudary addressed the core meeting of the 8th Paris Peace Forum’s core meeting, held in Paris, France, on October 29.
In line with the “Facing the Fault Lines: Sovereignty in a Fragmenting World” theme of the event, she spoke about the importance of respecting international law and multilateral principles.
“In a circumstance where the current world order is evolving and fragmenting, we must wisely protect our sovereignty based on international law, in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter, and focus on the well-being of the people, adhering to a people-centerd approach,” she said.
Sudary referred to the October 26 peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand, noting that the signing of the document had closed a difficult chapter and opened a new era.
She explained that not only did it end the recent conflict, but also laid the foundation for ensuring peace by addressing the root causes of the conflict and creating the necessary conditions for long-term peace, harmony and shared prosperity.
“The principles enshrined in the peace agreement are principles that Cambodia is firmly committed to. No matter how difficult or complex it may be, this conflict must be resolved by peaceful means, with full respect for existing treaties and international law,” she said.
She believed that to strengthen the fragmenting world order, all countries must promote multilateralism and a rules-based global order. Whether a country is large or small, it must respect sovereignty and receive equal value and dignity.
“Indeed, Cambodia’s sovereignty has been strengthened as we have resolved conflicts peacefully, in accordance with international law, and have contributed to resolving global challenges such as climate change, peace and security, and pandemics,” she added.
She encouraged the promotion of inclusive global dialogue to address all global issues, noting that strength does not lie in fragmentation, but rather in dialogue and cooperation, not in unilateralism, but in collective will, multilateralism, and direct dialogue.
“As a small nation, Cambodia relies heavily on diplomacy and international law to protect its national interests. Being a small country does not mean we do not have the right to self-determination, but it clearly demonstrates our commitment to peace and a clear foreign policy based on principles,” she said, as she concluded her address.
