Istanbul: H.E. Ouch Borith, First-Vice President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia and Head of the Parliamentary Delegation, delivered a significant message urging the international community to convert abstract principles into concrete measures to maintain global order during the General Debate at the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Istanbul, Trkiye.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Senate's press release highlighted that H.E. Ouch Borith's address was centered on "Nurturing Hope and Securing Justice for Future Generations." He emphasized that the discussion topic transcends mere aspiration, presenting it as a crucial moral obligation in a world facing increasing divisions. Reflecting on Cambodia's history from conflict to recovery, he underlined that lasting peace is a hard-won reality demanding a strong commitment to truth, justice, and impartial law. He asserted that "hope" is not genuine unless supported by responsibility and a dedication to historical truth.
H.E. Ouch Borith warned the assembly of the risks posed by historical revisionism, stating that truth cannot triumph when history is intentionally misrepresented to serve narrow political motives. Such manipulations, he warned, could lead to mistrust, hatred, and conflict among nations that must coexist.
A key theme of his address was the unbiased application of justice. The Head of Delegation argued that global stability is compromised when the rule of law is applied selectively or disregarded for convenience, whether domestically or in international affairs. He advocated for the uniform enforcement of international law as an impartial safeguard protecting the rights and dignity of all nations, regardless of size. He emphasized the importance of adhering to bilateral and international agreements, particularly concerning treaties and boundary issues.
The address also highlighted the vulnerability of peace processes, stressing that ceasefires should be regarded as genuine commitments to peace rather than temporary pauses. He expressed concern over actions that deviate from dialogue-based agreements, which decrease trust. He called for caution and restraint in sensitive areas to avoid undermining the path to mutual agreements.
In addition to legal and diplomatic considerations, H.E. Ouch Borith's speech addressed the human and cultural toll of conflict. He reminded delegates that the impact of conflict is most severe on communities whose lives and homes are disrupted, hindering reconciliation efforts. He noted that the destruction of cultural heritage is a serious violation of the collective duty to protect humanity's legacy-treasures of universal importance beyond national boundaries.
In conclusion, the Head of Delegation urged the international community to draw on "collective wisdom and courage" to tackle the root causes of discord. He declared that the role of modern parliaments is to make the promise of peace a "lived reality" for future generations. By honoring commitments and adhering to binding principles, the global community can fulfill its duty to future generations, transforming the vision of justice from a distant goal to a tangible legacy.