Cambodia and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening and expanding bilateral cooperation. Both sides also reiterated their intention to continue regional and international collaboration to contribute to the protection of peace.
The pledge came as Prime Minister Hun Manet met with Japanese vice-minister for Foreign Affairs Masahiro Komura on March 13 to discuss the work, according to the former’s social media post.
During the meeting, Komura emphasised that Japan will continue to strengthen and expand cooperation with the Cambodian government, in line with the spirit and agreement between the heads of government of both countries, in areas of trade and investment, industry, tourism, digital, defence and security.
Manet shared his appreciation for the bilateral cooperation, describing the relationship as being at its highest level since it was elevated to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” last year.
“Over the past six months, Cambodia and Japan have recorded many accomplishments, including the inauguration of National Road 5, a wastewater treatment plant, the expansion of the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port and the promotion of investment from Japan to Cambodia, as well as a visit by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force [JMSDF],” he said.
He expressed his gratitude to Japan for its support through the International Coordinating Committee for Angkor (ICC-Angkor) to preserves the Kingdom’s archaeological sites in Siem Reap province. The same mechanism has been expanded to include Sambor Prei Kuk in neighbouring Kampong Thom province, and was recently extended for another decade.
During his visit to Cambodia, Komura signed an exchange of documents concerning $154 million in concessional loans for regional hospital development projects, as well as attending meetings of the ICC-Angkor/Sambor Prei Kuk.
Komura described this cooperation as an international model for the preservation of cultural heritage.
Kin Phea, director of the Royal Academy of Cambodia’s International Relations Institute, noted that the relationship between the two countries appears to be deepening, with increased exchanges of visits, ever since it was elevated to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.
“We have seen mutual support at regional and international forums, with Japan demonstrating its commitment to helping Cambodia. This is a positive sign for the evolution of their relationship,” he said.
