PHNOM PENH: Phann Vanrath, deputy prosecutor general of The General Prosecution Office to the Cambodian Supreme Court, emphasised legal reforms, academic exchanges and the prevention of cross-border crimes as he addressed the closure of the 7th China–Asean Legal Cooperation Forum held in Chongqing, China, on November 21.
“Legal development requires both practical experience and academic research,” he said, stressing the importance of cooperation between universities and judicial institutions.
He highlighted the importance of legal cooperation in supporting regional economic growth, particularly in sectors such as commercial law, digital governance and cross-border connectivity.
The deputy prosecutor also reiterated Cambodia’s ongoing commitment to judicial reform and alignment with international legal standards.
His speech also addressed transnational crime, citing Cambodia’s ongoing crackdown and suppression of online international criminal enterprises.
“Our discussions on transnational crime — especially telecom fraud, cybercrime, money laundering and human trafficking — highlight the urgency of coordinated action,” he said.
“Cambodia has made significant progress by dismantling cyber-fraud networks, strengthening digital forensics, rescuing trafficking victims, enforcing the Cambodia–China Extradition Treaty and prosecuting offenders, under our improved legal framework,” he added.
He called for enhanced cooperation, mutual legal assistance and the sharing of investigative capabilities among China and Asean countries.
Vanrath also emphasised the importance of academic exchanges, joint research programmes and legal education as key pillars for building a strong judicial community in the region.
He added that Cambodia is committed to deepening China–Asean legal cooperation and expressed confidence that the friendship built in Chongqing will guide future cooperation. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
