In 1999, Cambodia emerged from the shadows of conflict to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), marking a turning point in its post-war recovery. On April 30 of that year, Cambodia became the tenth member of the bloc, signaling a new chapter for a nation long isolated from the world. As Cambodia celebrates its 25th anniversary within ASEAN, its trajectory stands as a powerful example of regional cooperation, resilience, and growing influence in Southeast Asia.
Over the years, Cambodia has evolved from a country recovering from civil war to a proactive participant in shaping the future of ASEAN. Its role has grown beyond that of a beneficiary of regional support to a key player in regional diplomacy, economic growth, and cultural exchange.
From Recovery to Regional Leadership
When Cambodia joined ASEAN, it was still mending the scars of civil conflict and genocide. For the country, ASEAN membership provided a critical pathway for reintegration into the international community, offering a platform to attract investment and accelerate development. Two and a half decades later, Cambodia has emerged as a dynamic ASEAN member that has not only benefitted from but actively contributed to the bloc’s goals.
Cambodia’s leadership within ASEAN has been particularly significant during its two terms as ASEAN chair—2002 and 2012. During the 2012 chairmanship, Cambodia was tasked with managing sensitive regional tensions surrounding the South China Sea. Despite the diplomatic challenge, the country successfully helped guide the bloc to adopt the Six-Point Principles on the South China Sea, reinforcing ASEAN’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution.
In August 2023, Prime Minister Hun Manet took office and reaffirmed Cambodia’s enduring commitment to ASEAN. At the recent ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, he stated, “Our membership in ASEAN has been a cornerstone of our foreign policy and national development. We remain committed to working with our partners to ensure a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.”
Economic Growth Through Regional Integration
Cambodia’s economic transformation, accelerated by its membership in ASEAN, has been remarkable. Over the past two decades, Cambodia’s economy has grown at an average rate of 7.7% per year. In 2022, the country’s GDP reached $28.5 billion, with ASEAN countries accounting for a significant portion of its trade.
The ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) has been a key driver of Cambodia’s economic success, particularly in industries like garments, footwear, and agriculture. In 2022, Cambodia’s exports to ASEAN countries rose by 15%, reflecting deepening economic ties within the region. Additionally, Cambodia’s participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has further enhanced its trade opportunities, opening doors to the world’s largest free trade agreement.
Infrastructure development has also been a focus for Cambodia, aligning with ASEAN’s Master Plan on Connectivity 2025. Projects like the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, completed in 2022, have improved regional connectivity, establishing Cambodia as a key logistics hub in Southeast Asia.
Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power
Beyond politics and economics, Cambodia has played an important role in enriching ASEAN’s cultural heritage. With its ancient temples, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Angkor Wat, Cambodia offers a glimpse into the shared history of Southeast Asia. The country has hosted numerous ASEAN cultural events, including the ASEAN Tourism Forum, which has promoted regional tourism and fostered mutual understanding among member states.
In 2022, Cambodia successfully hosted the ASEAN Summit and related meetings, receiving praise for its organizational expertise and hospitality. This event showcased Cambodia’s ability to manage large-scale international gatherings, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and capable member of ASEAN.
The Road Ahead
While Cambodia’s achievements are significant, challenges remain. Income inequality, environmental sustainability, and the need for digital transformation are among the issues the country is working to address. The government’s Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021-2035 aligns with ASEAN’s efforts to build an inclusive, sustainable digital economy.
Looking ahead, Cambodia aims to deepen its engagement with ASEAN, particularly in areas such as green energy, digital innovation, and human resource development. These initiatives will not only benefit Cambodia but also contribute to the broader growth and stability of the region.
A Legacy of Resilience and Partnership
As Cambodia marks 25 years in ASEAN, its journey offers a powerful reminder of the value of regional cooperation. From a nation recovering from conflict to an active, influential member, Cambodia has shown that unity and collaboration are key to transformative change.
ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, a Cambodian national, aptly summarized Cambodia’s contributions: “Cambodia’s story is one of resilience, determination, and growth. Its role in ASEAN has strengthened the entire region, and its future looks even brighter.”
As Cambodia looks toward the next 25 years, its role in ASEAN will continue to evolve, solidifying its position as a key partner in shaping a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Southeast Asia.
