Lecture by H.E. Mrs. Catherine West, MP, the UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific at De Montfort University, Cambodia.

On April 22, 2025, the ASEAN-UK YLI team attended a lecture by Her Excellency Mrs. Catherine West MP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, at De Montfort University in Phnom Penh during her visit to Cambodia.

During her presentation, Minister West discussed the growth and development of Cambodia, highlighting the UK’s contributions in key areas such as climate change, education, and regional security. She emphasized the UK’s role in addressing climate change in Cambodia, which is a key factor for the country’s development and economy. The UK remains committed to supporting education, NGO activities, and grassroots levels.

Minister West highlighted the significance of ASEAN as an important regional forum for the UK. The UK's approach is evolving, as it seeks to deepen cooperation with ASEAN member states, moving beyond traditional trade and development frameworks. The UK’s commitment to ASEAN encompasses a broader spectrum of diplomacy and security considerations, and the UK is dedicated to fostering growth and dialogue together with ASEAN member states. 

The five main UK priorities in its partnership with ASEAN are: Supporting the Advancement of Girls' Education (SAGE), ASEAN-UK Economic Integration Programme (EIP), ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund (GTF), ASEAN-UK Health Security Partnership (HSP), and the ASEAN-UK Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Programme.

Photo Credit: De Montfort University - Cambodia