In a statement released on 28 Feb 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia announced the successful conclusion of a high-level visit to Malaysia by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet. The visit aimed to further deepen long-standing relations and productive cooperation in multiple areas between the two countries.
During his official visit to Malaysia, Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei was warmly received by Malaysian leaders, including Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, and His Majesty Yang Di-Pertuan Agong XVII Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar. The visit featured a range of bilateral meetings, joint committee sessions, and the signing of several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) to enhance cooperation in various sectors.
The two prime ministers discussed ways to boost trade and investment between Cambodia and Malaysia, including the establishment of a Joint Trade Committee to address trade issues and identify export opportunities. They also agreed to consider a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in customs agencies to facilitate the movement of goods.
Halal industry was another area of focus for the two leaders, with Malaysia sharing its expertise and best practices to help Cambodia increase exports to Muslim countries. The prime ministers expressed strong hopes for the early conclusion of an MoU or mutual recognition arrangement between the Cambodian Halal Steering Committee and the Department of Islamic Development of Malaysia.
Tourism was also a priority area of cooperation, with the two prime ministers encouraging relevant authorities to collaborate and promote the two countries’ tourist destinations. Energy security was another key aspect discussed during the visit, with Samdech Thipadei expressing appreciation for Malaysia’s support for the sub-sea Lao-Cambodia-Singapore power transmission cable project.
The two leaders also emphasized the importance of cooperation in information and communication technology (ICT), digital innovation, education, defence, and security. They stressed the need for training and opening up opportunities for Cambodian students in education and vocational training as well as advancing research collaboration in high-tech industries such as electric vehicles (EV) and artificial intelligence (AI).
In addition to the MoUs signed during the visit, the Cambodia-Malaysia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation was also announced, with the two foreign ministers expected to co-chair the commission at an early convenient date.
The successful visit marked a significant milestone in government efforts to enhance trade and investment between Cambodia and Malaysia. The two countries are committed to deepening their robust relations and productive cooperation in various sectors, contributing to regional stability and prosperity.
- Key outcomes of the visit include: establishment of a Joint Trade Committee, MoUs on Halal industry, Tourism, Energy Security, ICT, Digital Innovation, Education, Defence, and Science, Innovation and Technology.
- The two countries agreed to boost cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, Halal industry, energy security, ICT, digital innovation, education, defence, and science, innovation and technology.
In conclusion, the visit highlights Cambodia’s commitment to regional cooperation and bilateral relations with key partners such as Malaysia. As the two countries continue to strengthen their ties, they are poised to unlock new opportunities for trade, investment, tourism, and economic growth in the region.