AKP Phnom Penh, August 4, 2026 --

Phnom Penh is set to become a focal point of global parliamentary diplomacy as Cambodia prepares to host the 2nd Inter-Parliamentary Speakers' Conference (ISC-2) from Aug. 26-28, 2026. The landmark gathering will bring together parliamentary leaders, speakers, and legislators from around the world to discuss pressing global challenges and strengthen cooperation on peace, stability, and sustainable development.

The conference marks another milestone in Cambodia's growing diplomatic profile, highlighting the country's evolution from a recipient of international peacekeeping assistance to an active convener of high-level international dialogue. By hosting ISC-2, Cambodia further reinforces its role as a trusted platform for constructive engagement among nations with diverse political systems and perspectives.

Expected to welcome delegations from nearly 50 countries, including around 20 that have already confirmed their participation, as well as more than 10 international organisations, the conference will provide an opportunity for parliamentary leaders to exchange views and promote peaceful solutions to regional and global issues. Representatives from organisations such as the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), United Nations agencies, and international partners are also expected to attend.

The event will be held at the five-star GDT Convention Centre in Phnom Penh, equipped with modern conference facilities, including a 1,002-seat Grand Ballroom for the opening and closing ceremonies, an international-standard auditorium, hybrid meeting technology, and multiple meeting rooms designed for bilateral discussions among parliamentary leaders.

Cambodian officials have stressed that the capital's proven ability to host major international events, including ASEAN Summits and IPU meetings, demonstrates its readiness to provide a secure, neutral, and conducive environment for dialogue. Extensive preparations covering logistics, protocol, security, and conference arrangements are now nearing completion.

Senior leaders of both the Senate and the National Assembly have held a series of coordination meetings to oversee preparations. During a joint meeting on July 20, First Vice President of the Senate H.E. Ouch Borith and First Vice President of the National Assembly H.E. Cheam Yeap reviewed the overall planning to ensure the smooth organisation of the conference.

According to Senate Spokesperson H.E. Chea Thyrith, Cambodia has completed nearly all preparations and is ready to welcome international delegates. He noted that hosting ISC-2 reflects the Senate's broader strategy of promoting parliamentary diplomacy alongside its domestic legislative responsibilities, in line with the vision of Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen.

The conference will be held under the theme "Solidarity for Peace and Shared Prosperity – Strengthening International Law and Resolving Conflicts Peacefully." The theme underscores the importance of multilateralism, respect for international law, national sovereignty, and dialogue as essential foundations for lasting peace and global stability. It also encourages parliaments to play a more active role in supporting peaceful conflict resolution and strengthening the international rules-based order.

Officials said the theme reflects Cambodia's own experience in achieving lasting peace through dialogue and reconciliation. Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, who initiated the idea of hosting ISC-2 following discussions with the Chairman of Pakistan's Senate earlier this year, has emphasised that peace and prosperity can only be sustained through mutual respect, understanding, and peaceful negotiation rather than coercion.

Beyond its diplomatic significance, ISC-2 is expected to leave a lasting legacy through the adoption of the "Phnom Penh Declaration," a strategic document reaffirming commitments to multilateral cooperation, parliamentary diplomacy, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. The declaration is expected to serve as a guiding framework for participating legislatures in advancing peace, stability, and international cooperation.

As Cambodia welcomes parliamentary leaders from across Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and other regions, the conference is also expected to showcase the Kingdom's peace, political stability, and growing international standing. More broadly, ISC-2 will reinforce Cambodia's emergence as a credible centre for dialogue and parliamentary diplomacy while enhancing the global profile of its legislative institutions.

By C. Nika