Cambodia plans to forward a date for hosting the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) after the original November date had to be called due to Covid-19 concerns.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation spokesman Koy Kuong said on Monday that May or June are the most likely months being considered, but nothing is firm at this point.

ASEM officials unanimously expressed their understanding and support for Cambodia’s request to postpone ASEM13 to mid-2021 at a meeting in July.

The 13th gathering – the first hosted by Cambodia – was slated to be titled: Strengthening multilateralism for common growth. But Cambodia proposed during a July 3 videoconference of members that the date be changed.

All members agreed it would be prudent to push back the date rather than meet online, a concern for Cambodia given the opportunity to host and show off the country.

Cambodia became a member of the Asia-Europe Summit in 2004 and was chosen to host it this year.

The 13th Asia-Europe Summit will involve the participation of the country’s top leaders and 53 member countries from Europe, Asia, and ASEAN.

The Asian-European political dialogue forum as it is formally known is meant to enhance relations and cooperation between partners.