Phnom penh: H.E. Vong Sauth, Second Vice President of the National Assembly, engaged with 17 students from the ASEAN Youth Federation who are set to participate in the upcoming Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP). The meeting took place at the National Assembly Palace, where discussions focused on the importance of youth understanding Cambodia's history and their role in shaping the nation's future.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Vong Sauth emphasized that young people comprise about 60 percent of Cambodia's population. He urged the attendees, who represent the descendants of those who survived the Pol Pot regime, to delve deeply into the country's history. He highlighted that the current peace and development in Cambodia are rooted in the sacrifices made by senior national leaders who overthrew the genocidal regime on January 7, 1979. He stressed the importance of remembering the tragic period of 3 years, 8 months, and 20 days and condemning any denial of Cambodia's painful history.

The students are scheduled to travel to Japan and Singapore for a 26-day program from January 15 to February 9. Mr. Sok Salihin, representing the students, expressed gratitude for the meeting and the opportunity to receive guidance from the Second Vice President. He mentioned the students' eagerness to learn about legislative institutions as they prepare for their studies abroad.

The Second Vice President also discussed the establishment of the Young Parliamentarians Group, aimed at increasing youth participation in international affairs. He addressed the critical role young people play in maintaining national unity, especially amid current border issues that require peaceful resolution based on international law. He encouraged the students to protect unity, be wary of misinformation, and participate actively in defending the national agenda.