In a statement released on 23 May 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, will pay official visits to the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Turkey, with accompanying stops in Morocco for key diplomatic engagements.
During his visit to China from 24 to 25 May, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with His Excellency Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China. The two leaders will focus on strengthening the "Diamond Cooperation," fostering their existing friendship, and advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation between the two countries.
Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea is scheduled to address key state institutions, including the Development and Reform Commission and Chairman of the National Energy Administration. He will also meet with Cambodian students studying in Beijing and Tianjin.
Following his visit to Turkey from 27 to 29 May, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea will participate in a business luncheon, discussing potential economic and investment cooperation between Cambodia and Turkey. He will also pay courtesy calls on Turkish dignitaries from both the executive and legislative branches, followed by a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart, His Excellency Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The two foreign ministers will explore new avenues for strengthening existing mechanisms and identify potential areas for future cooperation. They will also exchange views on current regional and international developments. Expectations include the signing of cooperation documents further solidifying ties between the two nations.
During his stay in Turkey, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea will meet with the Cambodian community and students, as Cambodia and Turkey commemorate the 65th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations in 2024.
On 30 to 31 May, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea will attend the 4th Meeting of French-Speaking Entrepreneurs (REF) in Marrakech, Morocco. He will deliver an intervention on the theme "Strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of French-speaking businesses: What support is expected from Governments?" in the presence of prominent figures from the public and private sectors.
Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea has a meeting scheduled with Mrs. Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the International Organization of Francophonie (OIF), to discuss strengthening collaboration between Cambodia and OIF, particularly regarding Cambodia's candidacy to host the 20th Summit of Francophonie in 2026.
In conclusion, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea's high-profile diplomatic tour underscores Cambodia's commitment to strengthening regional and international relationships. Through these engagements, Cambodia aims to foster cooperation and strengthen bonds with key partners, solidifying its position as a responsible and engaged member of the global community.