In a meeting that highlighted the robust bilateral ties between Cambodia and Indonesia, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn received a courtesy call from Indonesian Ambassador Santo Darmosumarto on 6 January 2025. The visit marked an opportunity for both leaders to discuss key areas of cooperation and strengthen their partnership.
On the occasion, His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister recalled Indonesia's support for Cambodia's peace process, commending the countries' robust political, economic, and defense relations. Ambassador Darmosumarto expressed his country's commitment to further enhancing bilateral ties, particularly in trade, security, and people-to-people exchanges.
During their meeting, both leaders praised the success of the 5th Meeting of the Cambodia-Indonesia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation in August 2024, which has solidified the two nations' collaboration. They welcomed efforts to increase rice trade, promote cooperation in the Halal industry, and enhance defense and security cooperation through capacity-building programs and joint efforts to combat transnational crimes.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Ambassador Darmosumarto also emphasized the need to expand direct flight routes, increase tourism exchanges, and strengthen people-to-people linkages through education. They looked forward to exploring areas of cooperation between Cambodia and Indonesia in the near future, including in the realms of infrastructure development and sustainable agriculture.
The visit underscores Cambodia's continued commitment to strengthening its relationships with key regional partners like Indonesia, a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The two nations have enjoyed robust trade ties, with bilateral trade exceeding $1 billion in 2023. By fostering stronger people-to-people links and cooperation on key issues, both countries aim to further boost their partnership and promote peace and stability in the region.
In conclusion, the meeting between Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn and Indonesian Ambassador Santo Darmosumarto marks an important milestone in Cambodia-Indonesia relations. By reinforcing their bilateral ties and exploring new areas of cooperation, both nations can continue to strengthen their partnership and contribute to regional peace and stability.