In a significant development, the Kingdom of Cambodia recently hosted the First Session of Bilateral Consultations with its long-standing partner, the Kingdom of Belgium. The talks, co-chaired by His Excellency Dr. CHEM Widhya, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Ambassador Francois DELHAYE, Director of Asia and Oceania, aimed to strengthen cooperation between the two nations in various sectors.
On 7 February 2024, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the high-level meeting took place. The discussions centered on the importance of bilateral political relations, with both sides highlighting their commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, human capital development, and other areas.
His Excellency Dr. CHEM Widhya expressed his deep appreciation for Belgium's invaluable assistance to Cambodia over the years, particularly in the fields of Agriculture, Health, Education, Environmental Protection, Social Protection, Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC), and Demining Activities. He also briefed on the latest political situation and economic strategy phase of the new Royal Government of Cambodia.
In response, Ambassador Francois DELHAYE reiterated Belgium's strong commitment to continue enhancing cooperation with Cambodia at bilateral and multilateral levels. The Belgian diplomat shared insights into the country's priorities as it prepares for the Federal Election in June this year and its rotation presidency of the Council of the European Union for the first half of 2024.
During the consultations, both sides discussed potential areas for future cooperation, including trade and investment, human capital development, and regional and global issues of common concern. The meeting also highlighted the importance of mutual support in international fora.
As a key takeaway from the talks, His Excellency Dr. CHEM Widhya sought Belgian support for Cambodia's candidacy to host the 20th Summit of la Francophonie in 2026. Both senior officials agreed that the Bilateral Consultations mechanism is essential to promote cooperation between the two countries and looked forward to the holding of the Second Session, scheduled to take place in Brussels at a mutually convenient date.
The successful First Session of Bilateral Consultations between Cambodia and Belgium marks an important milestone in their diplomatic relationship. The talks demonstrate the commitment of both nations to foster stronger ties, particularly in areas such as trade, investment, and human capital development. As Cambodia continues to navigate its foreign policy landscape, this development underscores the importance of regional and international cooperation.
<font color="blue">Last Updated: March 2024</font>