In a significant development for Cambodia’s foreign policy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation recently concluded the First Round of Bilateral Political Consultations with its Lithuanian counterpart. The talks, held in Phnom Penh on December 4, 2024, marked a crucial milestone in enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
The consultations, co-chaired by His Excellency Khuon Phon Rattanak, Secretary of State, and Mr. Julius Pranevicius, Director for Indo-Pacific at the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on various areas of mutual interest. The discussions centered around trade and investment, demining, digitalization, sports, education, and regional issues.
Cambodia’s dynamic political and economic progress was highlighted by His Excellency Khuon Phon Rattanak, who briefed his counterpart on the country’s transformative Pentagonal Strategy. He emphasized the ongoing development of key infrastructure projects, including the Techo International Airport and Funan Techo Canal, which will further enhance Cambodia’s regional connectivity.
In contrast, Mr. Julius Pranevicius showcased Lithuania’s cutting-edge infrastructure development and digitalization expertise. He highlighted the country’s science, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), and engineering capabilities to create mutually beneficial opportunities across domains.
The two sides explored potential high-level engagements at international forums to strengthen friendly ties and broaden bilateral cooperation. They also agreed to further seek areas of cooperation in key collaboration areas, including humanitarian demining through technical exchanges and sports development.
Lithuania proposed enhancing academic collaboration, spotlighting its renowned agricultural university and encouraging joint programs between institutions in both countries.
Pressing regional and global issues were also discussed, promoting mutual understanding and respect for each other’s perspectives.
Ahead of the first session of bilateral consultations, the two co-chairs signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania, officially establishing the bilateral consultation framework.
Both sides look forward to convening the Second Session of Bilateral Consultations in Lithuania at a mutually agreed date.
The significance of this event lies in its ability to foster stronger ties between two nations with complementary interests. As 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Lithuania, these consultations demonstrate a commitment to cooperation in key areas that will benefit both countries and the region.
By strengthening diplomatic engagement and collaboration, Cambodia and Lithuania can enhance their position as active players in regional and global affairs.
Bilateral Consultations: A New Era for Cambodia-Lithuania Relations
Key takeaways from the first session of bilateral consultations:
- Establishment of a bilateral consultation framework between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania.
- Enhancement of cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, demining, digitalization, sports, education, and regional issues.
- Promotion of mutual understanding and respect for each other’s perspectives on pressing global and regional concerns.
The future of Cambodia-Lithuania relations is bright, with a renewed commitment to cooperation and collaboration. As the two nations look to the horizon, they will undoubtedly continue to navigate complex global issues together, fostering a stronger and more resilient partnership in the process.