Distinguished Speakes of Parliament,
Honorable Members of Parliament,
Esteemed Delegates,

On the occasion of the Second Interparliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC-2) to be held from 26 to 28 August 2026, it is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all distinguished Speakers, parliamentary representatives and delegates. On behalf of the Senate and National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia, I convey my heartfelt greetings to you all as we come together in pursuit of our shared aspirations for peace, stability, prosperity.

Cambodia is honored to host the ISC. This reflects not only our longstanding commitment to constructive international cooperation and engagement, but also our firm belief in the value of dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation to advance the common good of all nations across all regions. Building upon the successful establishment of the ISC in 2025, this forum has emerged as a valuable platform for parliamentary leaders to exchange perspective and insights, and contributing to addressing the challenges facing our world.

In this context, the theme of the Conference “Solidarity for Peace and Shared Prosperity — Strengthening International Law and Resolving Conflicts Peacefully” reflects the urgency of our times which strongly require parliaments’ crucial role in driving mutual understanding and respect of sovereignty, rule of law, culture for the common cause of harmony, peace, and shared prosperity in the world.

Indeed, it is clear before our eyes that in an increasingly interconnected world, the consequences of armed conflicts, geopolitical competition, economic uncertainty, technological disruption, climate-related challenges, and the erosion of multilateral systems are increasingly felt far beyond national borders. Today, we are reminded of the profound human, social, and economic cost of war and instability. At the same time, we are equally reminded that peace cannot be taken for granted. The price of peace requires sustained commitment, mutual respect, dialogue, trust-building and a shared commitment to resolving differences through peaceful means in compliance with international law. It also requires a shared responsibility to uphold the principles that foster peace, stability, cooperation and mutual understanding among nations.

History offers valuable lessons in this regard. It teaches us that lasting peace and prosperity are built not through “uniformity”, but through mutual respect and understanding among diverse peoples and nations. By acknowledging our differences, learning from the experiences of the past, and embracing a spirit of cooperation, we can collectively shape a future founded on trust, stability, and shared prosperity.

Phnom Penh stands as a testament to the value of peace, reconciliation and national renewal. Cambodia’s journey from war to peace demonstrates that dialogue, mutual understanding and a spirit of win-win cooperation can overcome the most difficult challenges. The capital city of Cambodia remains an evocative reminder of the indispensable role that good governance and inclusive development, play in preserving harmony and progress.

I hope that your visit to Cambodia will be both productive and memorable and that you will have the opportunity to experience our warm hospitality, and the richness of our cultural heritage.

HUN SEN
President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia