On May 21st, 2024, Hiroshima University (HU) invited H.E. Dr. KAO Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, and held the 7th Peace Lecture Marathon at the Phoenix International Center MIRAI CREA of the Higashi-Hiroshima Campus.

As a specialist in international politics, Dr. Kao’s career has focused on strengthening Cambodia’s international relations, particularly in ASEAN, driving policy advocacy and promoting research, education, and development. Dr. Kao gave a lecture titled “ASEAN’s Strategic Role in Maintaining Peace and Advancing Prosperity in the Region,” focusing on two major themes: “Peace” and “Prosperity”. About 75 people, including HU staff and students gathered at the venue, as well as about 30 people participating online, listened attentively to the lecture.
During the Q&A session following the lecture, students asked many questions regarding the abolition of nuclear weapons, ensuring peace throughout ASEAN and its member countries, and fostering a green economy. Throughout his lecture, Dr. Kao emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue with partner countries including Japan, and resolving disputes through diplomatic means. After that, President Ochi conferred Dr. Kao the title of Specially Invited Professor.

Prior to his lecture, Dr. Kao paid a courtesy call on President Ochi, and the lecture was followed by a campus tour, including a visit to the Research Institute for Synchrotron Radiation Science.

The term of Dr. Kao as Specially Invited Professor is three years. During that time, he will be invited to speak annually at HU to improve the quality of our peace education. It is hoped that this visit and lecture will further promote exchanges with excellent students and researchers from ASEAN countries.