In a statement released on 26 September 2023, the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that His Excellency Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister of Thailand, will pay his first official visit to Cambodia on 28 September 2023.
During his stay, Mr. Thavisin will engage in a series of high-level meetings with his Cambodian counterpart, Samdech Hun Sen, and other senior officials to discuss ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and regional security.
The two Prime Ministers are also expected to exchange views on regional and international issues of shared interest and concern, including the promotion of peace, stability, and prosperity within ASEAN and beyond.
Mr. Thavisin’s visit is seen as an important step in strengthening traditional friendship and elevating multifaceted cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia, guided by the spirit of “Enhanced Partnership for Peace and Prosperity”.
During his stay, Mr. Thavisin will also pay courtesy calls on senior Cambodian officials, including Samdech Vibol Senea Pheakdei Say Chhum, Acting Head of State and President of the Senate; Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King; and Samdech Moha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khun Sudary, President of the National Assembly.
The visit will also include a handover ceremony for the Transit and Reception Center for Victims of Trafficking and Other Vulnerable Groups in Poipet, part of a bilateral cooperation initiative between Thailand and Cambodia.
Bilateral Cooperation on Key Issues
- Trade and Investment: The two countries are expected to discuss ways to enhance trade and investment ties, including the promotion of economic corridors and infrastructure development.
- Regional Security: Mr. Thavisin and Prime Minister Hun Sen will exchange views on regional security issues, including the situation in the South China Sea and the impact of terrorism on Southeast Asia.
- Human Rights: The two countries are also expected to discuss human rights issues, including the promotion of democracy and the rule of law in the region.
The visit by Mr. Thavisin marks an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between Thailand and Cambodia, and is seen as a key step towards promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Conclusion
The visit by His Excellency Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister of Thailand, to Cambodia on 28 September 2023, is expected to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries and promote cooperation on key issues of regional and international concern. The success of this visit will depend on the ability of both sides to build trust and foster a spirit of partnership that delivers mutual benefits and contributes to the promotion of peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.