In a demonstration of its commitment to global environmental governance, Cambodia has reaffirmed its dedication to signing and ratifying the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ) Agreement.
The Kingdom also expressed its strong support for the “Nice Wake-Up Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty”, underscoring its active role in addressing critical global environmental issues.
These key developments were discussed during a courtesy call between Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prak Sokhonn and Olivier Richard, the newly appointed ambassador of France to Cambodia.
According to the foreign ministry, the September 10 meeting highlighted the long-standing and robust diplomatic ties between Cambodia and France.
“Sokhonn welcomed Richard in his new capacity and expressed deep appreciation for the long-standing friendship between Cambodia and France, a partnership anchored in shared history and mutual trust,” added the ministry.
Both leaders acknowledged the importance of high-level engagements, particularly the recent discussions between Prime Minister Hun Manet and French President Emmanuel Macron during the Third UN Ocean Conference in Nice earlier this year.
The discussions at the conference reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to the BBNJ Agreement, a crucial international accord aimed at conserving marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
The agreement addresses the growing threats to the oceans, such as overfishing, pollution and climate change, through mechanisms such as the establishment of marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management and environmental impact assessments for activities conducted in the high seas.
“These exchanges notably reaffirmed Cambodia’s strong commitment to signing and ratifying the BBNJ Agreement, as well as its endorsement of the ‘Nice Wake-Up Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty’,” said the ministry.
The treaty aims to mitigate the global plastic crisis, which poses significant threats to marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Cambodia’s endorsement reinforces its commitment to fostering sustainable practices and addressing plastic pollution, both regionally and globally, it added.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for the leaders to discuss ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.
“Both sides expressed optimism about the upcoming 3rd Session of Bilateral Political Consultations, scheduled for later in 2025 in Phnom Penh,” noted the ministry.
Sokhonn thanked France for its continued support of Cambodia’s socio-economic development, particularly through the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), which has contributed to various sectors in Cambodia.
He also welcomed the forthcoming visit of the MEDEF International delegation, which will explore opportunities for increased cooperation, particularly in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, aviation and the digital economy.
Further discussions between the two leaders also touched on areas such as cultural exchange, health, defence and environmental cooperation.
Additionally, Sokhonn briefed Richard on the status of Cambodia-Thailand border issues, emphasising that these remain a priority in Cambodia’s foreign policy.
