Cambodia's remarkable contributions to the peace, stability, and economic prosperity of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have been acknowledged by ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn. In a congratulatory message to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on the occasion of the country's 25th anniversary of joining ASEAN, Kao Kim Hourn praised Cambodia's resilience amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these hurdles, Cambodia has maintained robust economic growth, exceeding 5% for the past two years, while achieving significant milestones in social, educational, and cultural development.

Kao Kim Hourn emphasized Cambodia's pivotal role in ASEAN's community-building efforts, particularly during its chairmanship years in 2002, 2012, and 2022. He highlighted Cambodia's leadership in championing key ASEAN initiatives, including post-conflict peacebuilding, the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and 2045, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Moreover, Cambodia continues to play a crucial role in promoting cooperation between ASEAN and its external partners, enhancing the bloc's influence and position in regional mechanisms.

As Cambodia celebrates this significant milestone, the ASEAN Secretariat reaffirms its commitment to supporting Cambodia and the ASEAN community in achieving their shared goal of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous ASEAN.