In a significant move to bolster bilateral ties, Cambodia and Liechtenstein have signed a Framework Agreement on Development Cooperation. The announcement was made on 29 February 2024, during the official visit of Her Excellency Dominique Hasler, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Education and Sports of the Principality of Liechtenstein.
The two Foreign Ministers, His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Her Excellency Dominique Hasler, engaged in a fruitful discussion, recalling their positive exchanges during their first meeting at the 78th UN General Assembly in New York in September 2023. They emphasized the growing friendship between the two nations and expressed appreciation for Liechtenstein’s decision to select Cambodia as one of nine priority countries for bilateral cooperation.
The Framework Agreement aims to strengthen development cooperation, focusing on human resources development, with a view to deepening ties and promoting mutual benefits. Both Ministers acknowledged that this agreement would pave the way for future agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) in various sectors of common interest.
Addressing the occasion, His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea welcomed Her Excellency Dominique Hasler’s intention to establish a representative office of the Liechtenstein Development Service (LED) in Cambodia. This office will facilitate the implementation of existing projects in the Kingdom, underscoring the importance of cooperation in this area.
The two Ministers expressed their commitment to further strengthen and expand cooperation, particularly in education and vocational training, aligning with the Royal Government’s people-centered policy, the Pentagonal Strategy — Phase 1. They concurred to explore the possibility of establishing Bilateral Consultations between the two Foreign Ministries.
Furthermore, they discussed regional and international issues of shared interests and concerns, reaffirming their steadfast commitment to maintaining good relations and multifaceted cooperation for the mutual benefits of the two peoples.
The visit by Her Excellency Dominique Hasler marks a significant milestone in the relationship between Cambodia and Liechtenstein, highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement and collaboration between like-minded nations.
Key Aspects of the Framework Agreement
• Human Resources Development: The agreement focuses on strengthening human resources development, with a view to promoting mutual benefits.
• Bilateral Consultations: The two Ministries agreed to explore the possibility of establishing Bilateral Consultations to foster closer cooperation.
• Regional and International Cooperation: Both Ministers discussed regional and international issues of shared interests and concerns.
By signing this Framework Agreement, Cambodia and Liechtenstein demonstrate their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and promoting development cooperation. This partnership has significant potential to contribute to the mutual benefits of both nations and the region as a whole.