Phnom Penh:Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia honored veterans and retirees at the 25th General Assembly of the Veterans Confederation of ASEAN Countries (VECONAC), held at the Peace Palace. He praised them as defenders of history, independence, and sovereignty, acknowledging their sacrifices in securing peace and stability in Cambodia and the ASEAN region.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Hun Manet highlighted the complex history of Southeast Asia post-World War II, emphasizing that modern societies in the region were built on the sacrifices of veterans. He noted the prolonged conflicts in Indochina during the Cold War, with Cambodia experiencing one of the longest wars in Southeast Asia.

The Prime Minister stressed that veterans across ASEAN are seen as protectors of history, independence, and the right of nations to determine their own destinies. He reiterated the importance of veterans in Cambodia€š¬€ž¢s peace and unity, which were achieved through the "Win-Win Policy" initiated by former Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Hun Manet reaffirmed the country's respect for veterans, emphasizing their role in preserving peace and supporting nation-building. He noted their continued importance in teaching future generations about the value of peace and the sacrifices made to achieve it.

Cambodia, leading VECONAC in 2026 through the Cambodian Veterans and Pensioners Association, is hosting the VECONAC meetings, which aim to strengthen cooperation among veterans' associations in ASEAN. These gatherings provide a platform for discussing challenges and promoting the welfare of veterans, persons with disabilities, and families of fallen soldiers.

ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn emphasized ASEAN's commitment to honoring veterans' contributions to regional peace and stability, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation in line with the aspirations of "ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future."