A senior Cambodian diplomat warned on Wednesday that internal conflicts in Southeast Asia could weaken the region’s ability to respond to global crises, as leaders prepare for an upcoming summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Speaking ahead of the bloc’s first meeting since the recent Middle East conflict, Cambodia’s envoy to ASEAN, Kung Phoak, said members are working to coordinate responses to the ongoing energy crisis, including efforts to operationalise a regional petroleum security agreement.
Governments across the 11-member bloc have already introduced measures such as fuel conservation, export controls and diplomatic outreach to secure energy supplies amid global disruptions.
However, Phoak cautioned that unresolved regional disputes could distract from collective action, pointing to lingering tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, as well as the protracted civil conflict in Myanmar.
Despite a ceasefire agreed in December, Cambodia says progress on border demarcation talks with Thailand has stalled, with allegations that Thai forces remain in contested areas.
Phnom Penh has also criticised Bangkok’s move to withdraw from a long-standing maritime agreement covering potentially oil-rich zones, though both sides have signalled willingness to resolve disputes under international law.
Thailand’s foreign ministry said it is conducting internal processes ahead of possible negotiations and emphasised the need for trust and good faith in bilateral talks.
On Myanmar, Phoak welcomed the military government’s decision to transfer ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest, expressing hope it could create momentum toward ending the conflict that began after the 2021 coup.
ASEAN members, including Thailand and the Philippines, are pushing for renewed engagement with Myanmar, including briefings to the bloc and access for its special envoy.
Phoak said resolving regional disputes swiftly would strengthen ASEAN’s unity, allowing it to better address immediate crises and prepare for long-term economic and security challenges.