Indonesian ambassador to Cambodia Santo Darmosumarto has wrapped up a two-day visit to Ratanakkiri province, highlighting new opportunities for trade, investment and cultural ties between the two countries.
The September 30–October 1 trip was part of the envoy’s broader engagement with Cambodia’s northeastern provinces, following earlier visits to Kratie, Mondulkiri and Steung Treng.
In Banlung, Santo met with Ratanakkiri provincial vice-governor Khan Chamnan, to discuss economic cooperation.
“Indonesia and Cambodia are connected by our close historical and cultural ties. However, in terms of economic cooperation, we have yet to maximise our potential,” the ambassador said.
He noted that Indonesian consumer products are already present in Ratanakiri’s markets and expressed confidence that local demand would grow.
“This provides an opportunity for greater economic interactions; not only trade, but also services and investment,” he added.
Chamnan welcomed the prospect of stronger links, outlining the government’s “Special Program to Promote Investment in the Four Northeastern Provinces” (SPIN).
He pointed to opportunities in agriculture and eco-tourism, areas where Indonesia and Cambodia could forge deeper collaboration.
During his visit, Santo toured Thaco Agri, one of Cambodia’s largest banana plantations.
Praising its export-oriented model, he said it offered valuable lessons for Indonesian investors exploring Cambodia’s agribusiness sector.
The ambassador also visited the Airavata Elephant Foundation, a conservation project dedicated to protecting endangered Cambodian elephants while promoting eco-tourism and environmental education.
He noted that such initiatives could inspire sustainable tourism practices and foster greater people-to-people connections.
The visit underscores Indonesia’s growing interest in Cambodia’s provincial economies, with a focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation beyond Phnom Penh.
