Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Cambodia and Singapore have jointly committed to further strengthening and expanding their bilateral cooperation, aiming for even more robust and fruitful engagement. This renewed pledge was a key outcome of a bilateral meeting held on July 2nd at the Peace Palace between Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and his Singaporean counterpart, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
During the significant gathering, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his sincere pleasure at Prime Minister Wong’s inaugural official visit to Cambodia. He also took the opportunity to reiterate his congratulations to Mr. Wong and his party on their recent electoral success. In return, Prime Minister Wong conveyed his gratitude for the warm welcome extended by Cambodia. Both leaders lauded the excellent, long-standing, and productive relationship that has characterized Cambodia-Singapore ties for decades. They also welcomed ongoing preparations for various events to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations, a significant milestone reflecting their enduring partnership.
The discussions underscored a mutual appreciation for the numerous achievements realized through bilateral cooperation at all levels and across diverse sectors. Both prime ministers firmly committed to continuing efforts to promote, reinforce, and broaden this close partnership. Specifically, within the bilateral framework, the leaders engaged in discussions and reached an agreement to enhance cooperation in several critical areas. These include bolstering collaboration in trade, investment, and finance, as well as strengthening people-to-people connectivity. Other vital sectors identified for increased cooperation encompass defense and security, agriculture, food and energy security, and dedicated initiatives for skill and vocational training.
Further highlighting the importance of his visit, Prime Minister Wong also held a productive meeting with Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate. During this encounter, Samdech Hun Sen emphasized the Singaporean Prime Minister’s visit as a crucial step towards further advancing Cambodia-Singapore relations. According to Senate spokesman Mr. Chea Thireth, the discussions delved into the progressive and long-standing nature of the relationship, tracing its origins back 60 years to the historical interactions between His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk and Singapore’s founding Prime Minister, the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. This foundational bond has since fostered continuous growth and development between the two countries.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, reflecting on the six-decade diplomatic bond, reiterated that this enduring relationship serves as a testament to the robust and lasting partnership that Cambodia and Singapore share, not only in the present but also for future generations.
