In a significant milestone, Her Excellency Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, and her spouse, His Excellency Pidok Sooksawas, paid their first official visit to Cambodia from April 23-24, 2025. This marked a notable step in further strengthening the long-standing friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations, as they commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.
During the visit, Her Excellency Prime Minister laid wreaths at the Independence Monument and paid homage to the great heroes and heroines of Cambodia. She also paid tribute and respect at the Royal Memorial of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, “PREAH BOROM RATANAK KAUDH,” the Late King-Father of Cambodia.
The two Prime Ministers held in-depth discussions on bilateral relations, covering a wide range of shared interests. They expressed satisfaction with the development of bilateral relations and commitment to further deepening cooperation in key areas, including politics, security, border affairs, trade and investment, labor, education, culture, tourism, connectivity, environment, technology, and innovation.
On political cooperation, the two Prime Ministers underscored the importance of conducting frequent exchange of all-level visits and regular communication between the two countries to further deepen bilateral ties and expand cooperation. They encouraged relevant institutions of both countries to conclude a Joint Plan of Action to implement the Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
On security cooperation, the two Prime Ministers applauded relevant institutions and competent authorities of both countries for their close coordination and dedicated efforts in addressing transnational crimes. They reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in these critical areas to ensure the safety and well-being of their peoples.
On economic cooperation, the two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction a remarkable growth in two-way trade, which surpassed USD 10 billion for the first time last year. Building on this positive momentum, they aimed to reach a target of USD 15 billion in the near future. They encouraged relevant institutions of both countries to convene the 7th Cambodia-Thailand Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting this year to further advance trade relations.
On tourism cooperation, the two Prime Ministers welcomed the increase in tourist flows between their respective countries and encouraged them to continue close collaboration in promoting the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination.” They underscored the importance of effectively implementing the Joint Tourism Cooperation 2023-2025, with the goal of attracting more visitors to both nations.
Apart from bilateral cooperation, the two Prime Ministers exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to contributing to global and regional peace, security, and stability, as well as to continuing mutual support in international fora.
As Thailand prepares to host the 33rd SEA Games next year, Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister extended his support for the successful organization of these important regional events. He also welcomed Cambodia’s strong support for Thailand as the host country.
During the official visit, Her Excellency Prime Minister and her spouse met with Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN Sen, President of the Senate, and Samdech Rathsaphea Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia. They also witnessed the signing of several bilateral documents, including Memoranda of Understanding on Transboundary Environmental Pollution Cooperation, Labour Cooperation, Employment of Workers, Management, Maintenance, and Usage of the Cambodia-Thailand Friendship Bridge, and Construction of the New Border Bridge at Prum — Ban Pak Kard.
Significance of the Visit
The visit marked a significant milestone in further strengthening the strategic partnership between Cambodia and Thailand. The two Prime Ministers expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation in key areas and advancing regional and international developments of mutual interest. The signing of several bilateral documents also highlighted the importance of cooperation in areas such as environmental pollution, labor, tourism, and infrastructure development.
The visit came at a time when regional and international developments continue to shape the global landscape. Cambodia and Thailand, as key players in the region, have a critical role to play in promoting peace, security, and stability. The two nations’ commitment to mutual support and cooperation in these areas is essential for advancing their shared interests and achieving regional prosperity.
Conclusion
The visit by Her Excellency Prime Minister of Thailand to Cambodia was a notable step in further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. The signing of several bilateral documents highlighted the importance of cooperation in key areas, including environmental pollution, labor, tourism, and infrastructure development. As regional and international developments continue to shape the global landscape, Cambodia and Thailand must remain committed to mutual support and cooperation to advance their shared interests and achieve regional prosperity.