(Phnom Penh): The Asian Vision Institute (AVI) hosted the official launch of the publication titled "The Rise of the Global South and Its Implications for Japan-ASEAN Partnership" at Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh on 18 March 2026.

The event examined the growing prominence of the Global South as a growing and emerging powerful force shaping the evolving international order, as well as its strategic, economic, and political implications for Japan-ASEAN cooperation in an increasingly multipolar world.

Discussions emphasised the importance of reinforcing regional cooperation, strengthening mutual trust, and advancing adaptive and forward-looking partnerships to ensure that Japan-ASEAN relations remain resilient, inclusive, and future-oriented amid shifting global dynamics.

The book acknowledges the diversity in the Global South, where some mega, major and middle powers interact with the countries in the Global South in consolidating their synergies, as well as the contributions by the authors to knowledge co-creation and intellectual debates on the thematic discourse.

The programme commenced with welcoming remarks by Chheng Kimlong, President of AVI, followed by keynote remarks from Suos Yara, Chairman of the Asian Cultural Council and Chairman of the Commission on Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Information of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Their interventions underscored the significance of the publication as both an academic contribution and a platform for policy dialogue, highlighting the need to reassess regional partnerships in light of the rise of the Global South. Particular emphasis was placed on Japan's long-standing role as a trusted partner of ASEAN, its contributions to development and regional resilience, and the importance of aligning strategic frameworks such as the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) to sustain a rules-based and inclusive regional order.

The book launch event was followed by a panel session, featuring Joanne Lin Weiling, Chheng Kimlong, Seun Sam, Alfredo C. Panizales, and Lim Menghour, and moderated by Path Kosal, Strategic Advisor to AVI and Secretary of State at the Office of the Council of Ministers. The session explored key themes of the publication, including the evolving role of middle powers, the transformation of development cooperation, and the growing importance of co-creation and network-based partnerships in navigating global uncertainties.

Participants highlighted the need for greater strategic flexibility, enhanced regional coordination, and strengthened institutional frameworks to respond effectively to emerging geopolitical and geo-economic challenges.

At large, the book launch provided a constructive platform for knowledge-sharing, policy-oriented dialogue, and intellectual exchange on the future of Japan-ASEAN relations within the broader context of the Global South.

The insights generated contribute to a deeper understanding of regional dynamics and reinforce the importance of sustained cooperation, inclusivity, and shared responsibility in shaping a stable and resilient regional order.

AVI reaffirms its continued commitment to advancing informed discourse and serving as a bridge between research and policy; connecting people, connecting knowledge, and connecting action.
=FRESH NEWS