CALD Statement No. 1 S. 2015

CALD Statement expressing support to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and Minority Leader Sam Rainsy for fostering the culture of dialogue in the greater interest of the Cambodian people

The Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), an alliance of liberal and democratic political parties in Asia, is convening today, 25 April 2015, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on the occasion of the CALD Conference focusing on the theme “Regional Integration in Asia: What Can We Expect from the ASEAN Community?”. CALD is aware that Prime Minister Hun Sen and Cambodian Minority Leader and former CALD Chair Sam Rainsy will meet and engage with Cambodian migrant workers to hear their issues, thoughts, and current situation.

Any form of dialogue helps bring out authentic engagement and bridges the gap on any political divide. CALD believes that dialogue is the best form of cooperation between and among political parties and stakeholders.

“The Prime Minister and I want to show that the culture of dialogue works in all circumstances even when we happen to be abroad together, respectively as prime minister and as opposition leader, we continue to respect each other and to promote national unity by working together for the sake of the nation. It is our hope to see this culture of dialogue also prevail in all friendly countries as evidence of a mature democracy,” Sam Rainsy expressed.

CALD recognizes the role of leaders as crucial decision makers who shape the future of a country. It is imperative that the culture of mutual understanding, driven by the need for peaceful engagement and continued vigilance to democratic reforms, be imprinted in the consciousness of leaders to further strengthen the cause of the citizens.

CALD encourages the political parties in Cambodia to continue to work together along the path of peaceful and constructive cooperation. Dialogue is a channel that can transform politics to the highest level of public service and governance.

CALD supports the culture of fostering dialogue to help achieve national reconciliation and to help strengthen human rights, rule of law, and democracy in Cambodia and across the globe.

CALD welcomes the example being shown by Prime Minister Hun Sen and Minority Leader Sam Rainsy as they work together to promote public interest.

This serves as an inspiration to political leaders from all affiliations in Asia and the rest of the world.