Pakistan-Cambodia Parliamentary Ties Strengthened as ISC 2026 Venue Announced
Phnom Penh: Cambodia has announced that it will host the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) in August or September 2026, marking a significant development in parliamentary diplomacy and Pakistan-Cambodia bilateral relations.
The announcement was made by President of the Cambodian Senate Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen during a high-level breakfast meeting with Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan and Founding Chairman of the ISC, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani. The Cambodian Senate President had specially requested the private breakfast meeting, which he attended along with his two sons, a gesture reflecting the importance attached to the engagement and the strong relationship between the two countries.
During the meeting, Hun Sen publicly declared Cambodia’s decision to host the ISC, noting that the move followed consultations with and encouragement from Chairman Gilani. Both leaders emphasized their shared commitment to strengthening parliamentary diplomacy, promoting peace, and enhancing international cooperation. The decision was also seen as recognition of Chairman Gilani’s leadership role in establishing the ISC as a credible global parliamentary platform.
The meeting was attended by several senior Cambodian leaders and officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Civil Services Hun Many; Senior Ministers Othsman Hassan and Sry Thamarong; Chairman of the First Commission of the Senate Ngy Chanphal; Deputy Commander of the Armed Forces and Chief of the Intelligence Department Hun Manith; and Secretary General of the Senate Lay Samkol. Representatives from the Cambodian business community were also present, including Vice President of the Cambodian Chamber of Commerce Neak Oknha Sear Rithy and Hyatt Regency Hotel owner Neak Oknha Leang Meng.
Chairman Gilani expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality and welcomed Cambodia’s decision to host the ISC, stating that the selection reflected mutual confidence, respect, and a shared vision for constructive legislative engagement. He suggested that Cambodia consider opening its diplomatic mission in Islamabad, a proposal that received a positive response. Chairman Gilani also extended an invitation to the Prime Minister of Cambodia to visit Pakistan, aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new areas of cooperation.
The development is expected to further enhance the already cordial relations between Pakistan and Cambodia, fostering closer collaboration across parliamentary, diplomatic, and economic domains.
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