In a move to further solidify Cambodia's position in regional and international affairs, the French government has invited Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet for an official visit on January 18-19. This marks the first time a Cambodian head of state has visited France since the country gained independence.
On December 3, 2023, French President Emmanuel Macron extended an invitation to Prime Minister Hun Manet, citing the importance of strengthening bilateral ties in key sectors such as economics, development, defense, cultural heritage, and language. This visit aims to deepen cooperation and diversify existing partnerships to address global challenges, including the transition to renewable energy.
During his visit, Prime Minister Hun Manet will meet with President Macron to discuss ways to jointly strengthen international order based on rules, ensuring the sovereignty and full independence of all nations. This is in line with Cambodia's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and cooperation in Southeast Asia and beyond.
The Cambodian delegation will also engage in discussions on trade and investment, as well as French assistance for development projects in various sectors. Furthermore, the visit provides an opportunity for cultural exchange, with a focus on promoting Franco-Cambodian relations and fostering people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Cambodia's involvement in regional organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is also expected to be discussed during the visit. The country has played an active role in ASEAN's efforts to promote economic integration, peace, and stability in Southeast Asia.
The French government's invitation to Prime Minister Hun Manet reflects the strong bilateral relationship between France and Cambodia. The two countries enjoy a long history of diplomatic ties, dating back to colonial times, and have cooperated on various projects, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
In conclusion, the upcoming visit of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet to France marks an important milestone in strengthening bilateral relations and deepening cooperation on key global issues. As Cambodia continues to play a vital role in regional affairs, its engagement with international partners like France is likely to have significant implications for the country's foreign policy and development priorities.