AKP Phnom Penh, October 5, 2026 --

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has outlined six key recommendations for the Veterans Confederation of ASEAN Countries (VECONAC) to further strengthen solidarity, cooperation and the role of veterans in promoting peace and regional development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 25th VECONAC General Assembly here at the Peace Palace on Monday, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet first called for continued joint efforts to preserve and promote the value of peace as a foundation for development and prosperity in the region.

Second, he called for stronger solidarity, friendship and cooperation among veterans’ associations of ASEAN Member States. He encouraged VECONAC to continue serving as a bridge for the exchange of experiences, knowledge and best practices, while promoting joint programmes and projects that provide practical benefits to veterans.

Third, the Prime Minister stressed that improving the quality of life and welfare of veterans should remain at the core of cooperation. He encouraged VECONAC and its member associations to continue giving priority to veterans’ health, social protection, livelihoods and dignity.

Fourth, he called for greater recognition of veterans as peace educators and bridges connecting the past with the present and future.

The experiences of veterans serve as valuable historical lessons for present and future generations, he said, encouraging VECONAC to promote the sharing of veterans’ experiences and understanding of the values of peace, reconciliation, solidarity and mutual respect among young people.

Fifth, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet called on VECONAC to remain active and resilient in responding to the evolving context of the region.

Sixth, he stressed that the spirit of VECONAC should be preserved and promoted as a unifying force within the ASEAN Community. He encouraged all member associations to uphold VECONAC’s core values, including cooperation, respect for human dignity and compassion.

The Prime Minister expressed his strong confidence that the 25th General Assembly would mark another important milestone in strengthening solidarity, friendship and cooperation among veterans of ASEAN Member States and further promoting VECONAC’s role to become more active and effective.

The 25th VECONAC General Assembly marks the second time Cambodia has hosted the event, following the first gathering held in Cambodia in 2019 under the high presidency of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, then Prime Minister and now President of the Senate and President of the Cambodian Veterans and Pensioners Association.

By C. Nika