Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet has credited the country’s progress in peace and development to the “Win-Win” policy introduced by former Prime Minister Hun Sen, now President of the Senate. Speaking at the 11th Plenary Session of the International Parliament for Tolerance and Peace (IPTP) in Phnom Penh, Hun Manet said the policy played a pivotal role in ending decades of conflict and fostering reconciliation and stability.
The IPTP, a forum under the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace (GCTP), convenes legislators from over 100 countries to discuss global peace and development. Cambodia joined the network in 2021, and this year’s session is set to adopt the Phnom Penh Declaration, promoting multilateral cooperation for peace and tolerance.
A Policy of Reconciliation
The Win-Win policy, implemented during Hun Sen’s administration, brought Cambodia’s long civil war to an end, including the dissolution of the Khmer Rouge insurgency. Hun Manet emphasized that the policy focused on dialogue and pragmatic solutions, which not only ensured peace but also laid the foundation for economic growth and improved living standards.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Cambodia’s economy expanded by an average of 7 percent annually, with development projects reaching remote regions. “This is reflected in real improvements in people’s living conditions and social well-being,” Hun Manet said during his address.
Reflections from Cambodians
Many Cambodians view peace as the cornerstone of the country’s progress. Veung Vinh, a former Khmer Rouge soldier in Battambang province, described peace as “the foundation for everything” and urged the nation to safeguard it.
Chan Pheap, a Phnom Penh resident who survived the Khmer Rouge era, highlighted the cost of conflict, which claimed an estimated three million lives. “Today, we enjoy complete peace and the freedom to travel anywhere. This is something we must protect,” she said.
Others echoed similar sentiments, praising the leadership that brought stability. Phann Phon from Siem Reap province credited the Win-Win policy as a unifying force for the nation, enabling both peace and development.
Marking Peace Day
Cambodia is preparing to commemorate the 26th anniversary of Peace Day on December 29, a date established by a Royal Government sub-decree. The event not only celebrates the country’s peace but also honors the sacrifices made to achieve it.
“Peace unites families and societies,” said Phnom Penh resident Chum Makara. “It is a treasure that we must preserve for future generations.”
A Global Perspective
Hun Manet’s remarks come as Cambodia seeks to position itself as an example of successful conflict resolution and reconciliation on the international stage. Hosting the IPTP aligns with the country’s efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation in tackling global challenges.
The anticipated Phnom Penh Declaration is expected to reflect these priorities, emphasizing the role of peace and tolerance in achieving sustainable development.
As Cambodia moves forward, its leadership continues to underscore the importance of maintaining peace as a pillar for future growth and stability.
