PHNOM PENH, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn said on Tuesday that unity, solidarity and effective multilateralism are crucial to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sokhonn made the remarks during the 23rd ASEAN-European Union Ministerial Meeting, which was held via videoconference.
ASEAN refers to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
"The fight against this global health crisis requires unity, solidarity and an effective multilateralism," he said. "With second and third waves still raging in some countries, it is extremely crucial that the EU (European Union) sustain its support to ASEAN's current initiatives to better prepare for future public health emergencies."
Sokhonn, who is also a deputy prime minister, commended the EU's active role in supporting the global endeavor to combat the pandemic and to mitigate its socio-economic consequences, including in the ASEAN region.
According to a press statement released after the virtual meeting, ASEAN members welcomed the EU's continued support for ASEAN centrality and community building and EU's announcement of 20 million euros (about 24 million U.S. dollars) to support the "South East Asia Health Pandemic Response and Preparedness Program." Enditem
