Phnom penh: H.E. Kittisethabindit Cheam Yeap, First Vice-President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia, highlighted the importance of ethical, equitable, and responsible use of artificial intelligence in advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Speaking at the conclusion of the 9th Asia-Pacific Parliamentarian Forum on Global Health (9th APPF-GH), he emphasized the necessity of integrating ethics, safety, equity, privacy, and public trust into technological innovations for healthcare.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Cheam Yeap, representing both himself and Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, expressed gratitude to the delegates for their active involvement and contributions. He underscored that UHC is a collective responsibility tied to human rights, dignity, and social justice, fundamental to human development and the attainment of the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
The forum served as a platform to evaluate regional progress and address gaps and challenges, including the impact of climate change on health systems and the prospects presented by AI. While acknowledging AI's potential, H.E. Cheam Yeap reiterated the importance of guiding technological advances with strong ethical and safety principles.
He reaffirmed that public health is a top priority for the Royal Government, led by Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, focusing on expanding essential health services, particularly for displaced and disaster-affected communities. The Phnom Penh Communiqu©, adopted at the forum's conclusion, was described as a collective commitment to action, echoing the sentiment that 'actions speak louder than words.'
Amendments to the APPF-GH Articles of Association were also highlighted, emphasizing their role in enhancing the forum's contribution to health and well-being across the region. H.E. Cheam Yeap called on parliamentarians to foster UHC policies, support sustainable financing, strengthen health systems, and ensure the responsible use of AI, ensuring that vulnerable communities are not neglected.
He noted that parliamentarians possess the means to transform commitments into action through legislation, budgeting, oversight, and representation, advocating for the voices of vulnerable communities in national decisions. He urged delegates to bring the 'spirit of Phnom Penh' to their parliaments, turning the forum's discussions into tangible improvements through laws, budgets, and partnerships.
H.E. Cheam Yeap stressed the importance of continued learning and cooperation through the APPF-GH, as health challenges transcend borders, requiring solidarity and shared responsibility. Concluding his remarks, he called for responsible leadership and parliamentary unity to build equitable and resilient health systems, ready to face climate and digital age challenges.
He expressed a hope that the 'spirit of Phnom Penh' would continue to guide efforts towards universal health coverage, ensuring no one is left behind. H.E. Cheam Yeap then officially declared the 9th Asia-Pacific Parliamentarian Forum on Global Health closed, concluding the regional gathering in Phnom Penh.