Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Cambodia

[Closing Reflections | Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026]

📌 The Dialogue concluded with Panel 5, “Economic Security and Strategic Dependence in Southeast Asia,” which examined how economic and security considerations are becoming increasingly interconnected.

Panelists discussed issues ranging from supply chains and technology to trade and investment, highlighting the growing need for countries to strengthen resilience while remaining open and connected to the global economy.

🙌 The conversation underscored that economic security is no longer only an economic issue, but an important part of broader strategic decision-making in the region.

As the inaugural Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue comes to a close, we extend our sincere appreciations to all speakers, moderators, participants, and partners for making the event a success.

[Day 2 Recap | Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026]

📌 Day 2 commenced with a Special Keynote Address by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, who shared reflections on ASEAN’s role in navigating a rapidly changing regional and global environment.

The programme continued with Panel 4, “ASEAN and Regional Order in an Age of Strategic Fragmentation.” As geopolitical competition continues to reshape the region, panelists explored how ASEAN can remain a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and stability.

The discussion highlighted that while the challenges facing Southeast Asia are evolving, ASEAN's strength lies in its ability to bring countries together and foster cooperation amid uncertainty.

✨ We thank our distinguished speakers and participants for contributing to an engaging exchange on the future of ASEAN and regional order.

[Gala Dinner | Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026]

✨ The first day of the Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026 concluded with a Gala Dinner, bringing together speakers, participants, diplomats, policymakers, scholars, and partners for an evening of meaningful exchange and networking.

The event was honored by the presence of H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, alongside distinguished guests from across the region.

Beyond the panel discussions, the Gala Dinner provided an opportunity to continue conversations, strengthen professional connections, and exchange perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping Southeast Asia's future.

We thank all our guests for contributing to a memorable evening and for supporting the spirit of dialogue and cooperation that underpins the Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue.

[Panel 3 Highlight | Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026]

📌 Panel 3, “ASEAN–EU Relations in a Changing Global Landscape,” examined the future of cooperation between the two regions at a time of growing uncertainty and rapid change.

The discussion highlighted opportunities for deeper collaboration in trade, connectivity, sustainability, and digital governance. Panelists also emphasized that strong ASEAN–EU partnerships can help address shared challenges and support a more stable, inclusive, and rules-based international order.

As global issues increasingly transcend borders, the conversation reaffirmed the value of dialogue, partnership, and cooperation between regions.

✨ Our sincere appreciation goes to the moderator, panelists, and participants whose insights helped enrich this timely discussion.

[Panel 2 Highlight | Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026]

📌 Panel 2, “Hedging Under Pressure: Strategic Autonomy in an Era of Major Power Rivalry,” explored one of the defining questions facing Southeast Asia today: how can states preserve strategic autonomy while navigating growing geopolitical pressures?

The discussion highlighted that maintaining flexibility and balance remains central to the region’s diplomatic approach. At the same time, panelists noted that an increasingly polarized international environment is making such strategies more challenging than ever.

The session underscored the importance of thoughtful statecraft and pragmatic diplomacy in safeguarding both national interests and regional stability.

✨ We thank our moderator, panelists, and participants for a lively exchange of perspectives that enriched the conversation of this important issue.

[Day 1 Recap | Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026]

📌 The inaugural Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026 opened with a day of candid and forward-looking discussions among policymakers, diplomats, scholars, and policy practitioners from across the region.

A particular highlight was Panel 1, “Border Tensions and Crisis Management in Mainland Southeast Asia: The Cambodia–Thailand Conflict.” Against the backdrop of recent developments, the panel provided a rare opportunity for thoughtful and constructive dialogue on one of the region’s most sensitive issues. Through diverse perspectives and frank exchanges, our panelists examined the challenges of crisis management, the importance of diplomatic communication, and the broader implications of border tensions for regional stability.

✍️ Rather than offering simple answers, the discussion generated valuable insights and food for thought on how ASEAN member states can navigate disputes, manage escalation risks, and strengthen mechanisms for stability in Southeast Asia.

✨ We thank our distinguished speakers, moderator, and participants for contributing to a productive and meaningful conversation.

What is the future of ASEAN-EU engagement as both regions deepen cooperation amid growing global uncertainty?

Speaking at the inaugural Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue 2026, Dr Yeo Lay Hwee, Senior Fellow at the SIIA, highlighted the need for ASEAN and the EU to move beyond rhetoric and focus on practical cooperation.

"For the EU and ASEAN to realise the benefits of their partnership, they have to move beyond the rhetoric of strategic partnership and pursue strategic projects that deliver real benefits to businesses and the peoples of the two regions," she said.

Dr Yeo joined Panel 3 on "ASEAN-EU Relations" alongside Dr Raimund Weiss, Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the American University of Phnom Penh, and Mr Andreas Berg, Chargé d’Affaires of the European Union to Cambodia. The session was moderated by H.H. Princess Alexandra Norodom.

Convened by the Cambodian Institute for Cooperation and Peace (CICP) with the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Cambodia (KAS), the Phnom Penh Strategic Dialogue brought together policymakers, diplomats, scholars, and strategic thinkers to discuss ASEAN's role in navigating geopolitical uncertainty, economic security challenges, and an evolving regional order.