On February 18, 2025, the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Berlin, as Chair of the Berlin ASEAN Committee (BAC), hosted the 5th BAC Meeting to review the past activities and outline future directions for the BAC. The meeting also marked the official conclusion of Cambodia’s six-month chairmanship and the handover of the rotating chairmanship to Lao PDR for the next term starting in March 2025.

Reflecting on Cambodia’s tenure, His Excellency CHHEANG Thyra highlighted the collective efforts made to foster ASEAN unity, strengthen friendships with Dialogue Partners, and enhance ASEAN’s visibility in Germany. He expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support from BAC members and commended the working group's dedication throughout Cambodia’s chairmanship over the past six months, which led to the successful organization of various activities. These included the 4th BAC Meeting, a Bowling Tournament, the ASEAN Day Celebration, farewells for outgoing diplomats — Ambassador of Indonesia and Chargé d’Affaires of Myanmar, as well as Ambassadors of Malaysia and Thailand — and the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Working Lunch. 

Looking ahead, the meeting discussed future initiatives to further strengthen BAC’s role in Berlin, including hosting working lunches or dinners not only with ASEAN Dialogue Partners but also with potential private sector representatives and organizing outdoor networking events.
With the transition to Laos’ leadership, His Excellency CHHEANG Thyra acknowledged the continued advancement of BAC’s work and the importance of sustaining its momentum. He emphasized Cambodia’s commitment, along with all BAC members, to supporting Laos in its upcoming term, ensuring ongoing collaboration and progress for the BAC community in Berlin.