In a statement released on 11 Dec 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn of Cambodia paid tribute to the outgoing Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Huy Tang, praising his crucial role in fostering closer bilateral ties between the two nations. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the evolving relationship between Cambodia and Vietnam.
The farewell call at the Ministry saw Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn congratulating Ambassador Nguyen on the successful completion of his tenure and expressing gratitude for his contributions to enhancing political ties, promoting economic relations, and people-to-people connectivity. The high-level exchanges facilitated by Ambassador Nguyen included notable visits such as the State Visit of His Majesty the King of Cambodia to Vietnam in November and the Kathina Ceremony led by Samdech Kittipritthbandit Bun Rany Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Red Cross.
Ambassador Nguyen commended Cambodia’s political stability, steady social-economic progress, and notable achievements under Prime Minister Hun Manet. He thanked the Cambodian government for its support throughout his diplomatic mission.
On key areas of cooperation, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn emphasized the importance of sustaining momentum to reach the $20 billion bilateral trade target set in December 2023. Both parties agreed on the need for full implementation of signed agreements and highlighted cross-border provincial cooperation as crucial for socio-economic development.
Tourism exchanges between the two nations also showed significant growth, according to Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn and Ambassador Nguyen. The deputy prime minister assured Ambassador Nguyen that his successor will receive full support in strengthening the long-standing Cambodia-Vietnam friendship.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Political ties: High-profile visits, including State Visits between leaders from both nations
- Economic relations: Trade and investment cooperation to reach $20 billion bilateral trade target
- Cross-border provincial cooperation: Ensuring seamless transport connectivity for socio-economic development
- Tourism exchange: Significant growth in tourism exchanges, set to further increase
Significance of Growing Bilateral Ties
The strengthened bilateral ties between Cambodia and Vietnam demonstrate the importance of regional cooperation in Southeast Asia. As two key nations in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), both countries are committed to fostering a comprehensive and cooperative relationship. This growing partnership holds significant potential for mutual benefits, including enhanced trade, economic growth, and increased people-to-people connectivity.
In conclusion, the farewell ceremony of Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Huy Tang marks an important milestone in Cambodia-Vietnam relations. As Cambodia and Vietnam continue to strengthen their bilateral ties, both nations can expect to reap the rewards of a long-standing friendship, good neighborliness, and comprehensive cooperation between them.