In a significant development, Cambodia and Thailand have reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen their long-standing strategic partnership, with both countries expressing a shared commitment to enhancing their cooperation in various key areas. This comes as the two nations continue to navigate the complexities of regional and international affairs.
On 9 October 2024, during bilateral talks on the margins of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, and Her Excellency Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand, engaged in a productive discussion that underscored the importance of their bilateral relationship.
The two leaders warmly congratulated each other on their respective roles, with Prime Minister Hun Manet extending an invitation to Prime Minister Shinawatra to visit Cambodia. In response, Prime Minister Shinawatra accepted the offer with pleasure, expressing her eagerness to deepen people-to-people exchanges and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
The discussion also touched upon key areas of cooperation, including political, economic, and security sectors. The two leaders acknowledged the significance of regular high-level visits and consultations in fostering deeper understanding and mutual trust. They considered holding a joint cabinet retreat and encouraged their respective foreign ministries to convene a Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation at the earliest convenience.
On the economic front, Cambodia and Thailand reaffirmed their commitment to promoting tourism and trade. The two leaders noted with satisfaction the progress made under the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” initiative, which aims to attract more tourists to both nations. They agreed to expedite cooperation projects and consultations on further facilitating cross-border trade, promoting tourism, and building economic synergies.
In addition, the two leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing security and safety, particularly in addressing transboundary crimes such as illicit drug smuggling, human trafficking, online scams, and cybersecurity threats. They committed to closer cooperation in this area, recognizing the need for a coordinated response to these challenges.
The reaffirmed commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between Cambodia and Thailand is significant, given the two nations’ long history of cooperation and their shared interests in regional and global affairs. As ASEAN continues to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the enhanced dialogue and cooperation between Cambodia and Thailand will be crucial in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Key Takeaways from the Bilateral Meeting
• The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through regular high-level visits and consultations.
• They agreed to hold a joint cabinet retreat and convene a Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation at the earliest convenience.
• Cambodia and Thailand will continue to promote tourism and trade, with a focus on facilitating cross-border transactions and building economic synergies.
• The two nations have pledged to enhance security and safety cooperation in addressing transboundary crimes.
A Future of Cooperation: Cambodia and Thailand Look Towards 2025
As Cambodia and Thailand mark the 75th Anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025, the bilateral meeting serves as a significant stepping stone towards a brighter future. With renewed commitment to cooperation and shared values, the two nations are poised to deepen their relationship, foster greater understanding, and promote peace and stability in the region.