In a meeting marked by warm hospitality and strong bilateral ties, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn of Cambodia met with Her Excellency Catherine West MP, the UK’s Indo-Pacific Minister, in Phnom Penh on 22 April 2025. The working lunch brought together high-ranking officials to discuss ways to bolster cooperation between the two nations.
During their discussion, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn and Her Excellency Catherine West praised the growing relationship between Cambodia and the UK, with a focus on promoting trade, investment, tourism, education, development, and demining. The meeting also highlighted the potential for further bilateral cooperation, including hosting the 3rd Bilateral Consultations in Phnom Penh this year.
On economic matters, His Excellency PRAK Sokhonn expressed satisfaction with the increasing trade volume between Cambodia and the UK, which reached almost USD 1 billion in 2024. The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed gratitude for including Cambodia as one of the beneficiaries under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). In return, Her Excellency Catherine West praised Cambodia’s efforts to build a modern airport, citing the Techo International Airport construction project designed by British firm Foster + Partners as an exemplary model of cooperation.
Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn briefed Her Excellency Catherine West on Cambodia’s strengthened commitment to combating cyber scams, including the establishment of a new national commission led by Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister HUN Manet. The two officials agreed to deepen their cooperation in tackling this pressing transnational crime.
The meeting also covered regional and international issues of mutual interest, with Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn and Her Excellency Catherine West reaffirming their support for each other’s candidacies in various international organizations. This strengthened partnership is expected to contribute to a more stable and prosperous region.
Key Takeaways
- Cambodia and the UK have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, education, development, and demining.
- The two nations have agreed to deepen their collaboration in combating cyber scams and transnational crime.
- Her Excellency Catherine West praised Cambodia’s efforts to build a modern airport, citing the Techo International Airport construction project as an exemplary model of cooperation.
In conclusion, the working lunch between Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn and Her Excellency Catherine West MP marks an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between Cambodia and the UK. The meeting’s focus on promoting trade, security, and regional cooperation will contribute to a more stable and prosperous region for both nations.