In a significant development, Cambodia and Australia are set to further strengthen their bilateral relations and cooperation in various areas, including agriculture, education, health, and regional issues. The announcement was made on 30 Oct 2023, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
His Excellency Sok Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, received a courtesy call by His Excellency Justin Whyatt, Ambassador of Australia to Cambodia, on October 27, 2023. The two officials expressed satisfaction with the close bonds of friendship, solidarity, and cooperation between the two countries over the years.
During their meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Ambassador discussed ways to explore wider possibilities to deepen potential areas of cooperation for mutual benefit of the two peoples. They also looked forward to the Fourth Senior Officials' Talks between the two foreign ministries to be held in Cambodia in 2024 to further enhance bilateral relations.
The Deputy Prime Minister renewed his gratitude for Australia's invaluable support and continued assistance to Cambodia in various areas, particularly agriculture, education, and health, including COVID-19 vaccines. The Ambassador expressed his admiration for Cambodia's socio-economic development and his commitment to exploring new areas of cooperation to further spur the Kingdom's national development.
On agriculture, the Deputy Prime Minister appreciated the successful launch of a new fragrant rice variety "Champei Sar 70°", named by Samdech Techo HUN Sen to mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Australia last year. The Ambassador also expressed interest in supporting Cambodia's agricultural sector through initiatives such as the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research.
The two sides emphasized the significance of human resource development, including capacity building of Cambodian diplomats. They valued the close collaboration between the National Institute of Diplomacy and International Relations and the Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh.
Furthermore, the Deputy Prime Minister appreciated Australia's active engagement under the ASEAN framework and confirmed the high presence of Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister at the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit to be held in Australia on March 4-6, 2024. The two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest.
The strengthening of bilateral relations between Cambodia and Australia is expected to have a positive impact on the Kingdom's development, particularly in areas such as agriculture, education, and health. With Australia's support and commitment, Cambodia is poised to continue its socio-economic development and play an increasingly important role in regional affairs.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the signing of this agreement marks an important milestone in the strengthening of bilateral relations between Cambodia and Australia. The Kingdom of Cambodia looks forward to continuing its cooperation with Australia in various areas, including agriculture, education, health, and regional issues. With Australia's support, Cambodia is poised to continue its socio-economic development and play a significant role in regional affairs.
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