The US embassy in Phnom Penh celebrated the 249th US Independence Day (July 4) on July 3, with the participation of several high-ranking Cambodian officials, who assured the Americans that Cambodia remains a trusted partner of the US.
Embassy chargé d’affaires Bridgette Walker said that the idea and spirit of America have not only shaped her country’s development, but are also the basis upon which the US interacts with the rest of the world.
“We seek partnerships where there are equal chances and opportunities; where there is transparency; and where there is fairness. To achieve these goals, you will find Americans working in every sector everywhere to create relationships and deepen partnership,” she said.
The event also paid tribute to the 75th anniversary of the establishment of US-Cambodia ties, which began in 1950. Officials, diplomats, partners and friends of the embassy explored a historic photo walk recounting the development of bilateral ties and enjoyed food and drinks generously provided by sponsors.
Guests were welcomed and entertained by a brass ensemble from the US Air Force Band of the Pacific, which played a set of musical hits from both countries, representing the decades of the relationship. The Royal Cambodian Army Honour Guard and Trumpet Unit also delighted guests with a performance which paid tribute to the longstanding friendship between the American and Cambodian people.
Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and first vice-chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), represented the Cambodian government at the event as the guest of honour, along with several other ministers and senior military commanders.
Addressing the event, Chanthol noted that Cambodia and the US have built a strong partnership which is based on mutual respect and excellent cooperation which spans various sectors, including trade, investment, defence, education, culture and people-to-people ties.
“Cambodia remains a trusted partner of the US and believes that this bond of friendship will continue to grow strongly, with strategic direction and significance. Cambodia and the US will continue to record a partnership full of mutual trust, marked by progress and innovation, enduring into the future,” he said.
