Phnom penh: Samdech Moha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia, presided over the opening ceremony of the National Forum on 'Women in Leadership and Governance,' held at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel. The event, themed 'Women and Girls' Leadership for All,' brought together over 2,400 participants both in person and online. It was organised by the Ministry of Women's Affairs in collaboration with development partners and relevant institutions, aiming to boost women's representation in leadership roles and foster inclusive participation in national governance.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Khuon Sudary, in her keynote address, praised the Royal Government's unwavering commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment. She asserted that the active participation of women in leadership roles is crucial for fostering innovative governance, sustainable development, and social resilience. She declared, 'Investing in women and girls is a wise and indispensable investment for the nation.'
Samdech Khuon Sudary acknowledged the leadership of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate, recognizing his contributions as the Father of Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment. She also praised the efforts of the Royal Government under the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly, led by Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, for its commitment to establishing a just and inclusive society focused on women.
Reaffirming Cambodia's dedication to international frameworks such as CEDAW, the SDGs, and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action 30+, she emphasized that women's rights are human rights and highlighted the importance of peace as the foundation for all progress. 'Without peace, there is nothing - no gender equality, no development, only suffering and loss,' she noted.
Samdech Khuon Sudary condemned the recent incident involving Thai soldiers in Prey Chan village, O'Beichoan commune, O'Chrov district, Banteay Meanchey province, which resulted in one death and several injuries. She denounced it as a violation of Cambodia's sovereignty and international law, urging the international community to hold Thailand accountable.
In addressing global challenges, she called for collective action to tackle issues like geopolitical tensions, post-pandemic recovery, and digital transformation, which disproportionately impact women and children. She highlighted the ongoing struggle against societal norms that impede women's full participation in leadership.
Concluding her remarks, Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed confidence in the Royal Government's gender policies, stating, 'The development of women's and girls' leadership is not only a women's issue, but a national cause that benefits all, families, communities, and the entire nation.'