Senior officials convene in Siem Reap to bolster economic and security collaboration under Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
SIEM REAP, Cambodia – Senior officials from ASEAN and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the 37th ASEAN-U.S. Dialogue held on 22 April 2025. The meeting, co-chaired by Cambodia’s Secretary of State Kung Phoak and U.S. Senior Bureau Official Sean O’Neill, underscored the enduring collaboration between the two sides across economic, security, and people-to-people domains.
Both parties reviewed the progress of the ASEAN-U.S. Plan of Action (2021–2025), noting significant advancements in areas such as digital economy, cybersecurity, and transnational crime prevention. They expressed satisfaction with the robust implementation of the plan’s measures ahead of its conclusion at the end of 2025.
The United States reiterated its support for ASEAN’s central role in the regional architecture and its community-building efforts. Discussions highlighted the importance of practical cooperation under the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, with emphasis on promoting peace, security, and stability through ASEAN-led mechanisms.
Economic collaboration remains a cornerstone of the partnership, with ASEAN acknowledging the U.S. as one of its largest trading partners and the top source of foreign direct investment. Both sides expressed intent to engage in constructive dialogue to address trade-related concerns and explore avenues for deeper cooperation in strategic sectors, including digital services, green technology, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare.
In the realm of security, the dialogue addressed shared challenges such as combating drug trafficking, online scams, and terrorism. The United States emphasized the importance of upholding freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, aligning with ASEAN’s commitment to regional stability.
People-to-people ties were also a focal point, with both sides recognizing the value of programs like the Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative. The ASEAN-U.S. Center in Washington, D.C., was commended for its role in enhancing mutual understanding and awareness.
The dialogue concluded with a shared vision for a resilient and prosperous region, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration in addressing regional and global challenges.
Source: ASEAN.org
