In a statement released on 11 December 2024, Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Prak Sokhonn congratulated the United States on its recent successful elections, marking a significant development in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
The congratulatory message was conveyed by Ms. Bridgette L. Walker, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the U.S. Embassy, during a meeting with H.E. Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn on 10 December 2024. The conversation also highlighted the appreciation of the significance of Cambodia-US relations, as expressed by His Majesty the King in his congratulatory messages to President-elect Donald J. Trump.
H.E. Deputy PM Prak Sokhonn emphasized Cambodia’s readiness to work closely with the incoming US Administration to deepen the relationship and cooperation between the two countries. He expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum of bilateral ties and cooperation, which have been strengthened through high-level engagements, including visits by U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and USAID Administrator Samantha Power.
The two officials reaffirmed their shared commitment to broadening and deepening bilateral relations across all areas of mutual interest, including trade and tourism. They also applauded the reinvigoration of military-to-military cooperation and the resumption of the U.S.-Cambodia Defense Policy Dialogue.
Furthermore, H.E. Deputy PM Prak Sokhonn and CDA Walker agreed to express gratitude to the U.S. authorities for their assistance in retrieving 150 Khmer antiquities from foreign countries and returning them to Cambodia. They also discussed the importance of continued scholarship and exchanges, which have enabled over 1,000 Cambodian students to study and train in the US.
The two officials reaffirmed Cambodia’s continued support for the joint humanitarian mission to recover the remains of missing U.S. soldiers during the war. Additionally, they highlighted the significance of cooperation in demining efforts, with H.E. Deputy PM Prak Sokhonn expressing high appreciation for the USD12 million assistance provided through USAID in 2024.
In the context of regional and international affairs, H.E. Deputy PM Prak Sokhonn reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment as country coordinator for ASEAN-U.S. Dialogue Relations (2024-2027) to redouble its efforts in strengthening the ASEAN-U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Overall, the strengthened ties between Cambodia and the US reflect the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges and promoting shared interests. As both countries navigate the complexities of an increasingly interconnected world, their partnership is poised to play a significant role in advancing regional stability and promoting peace.
Key Takeaways:
- Cambodia and the US have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations across all areas of mutual interest.
- The two countries have strengthened military-to-military cooperation and resumed high-level engagements.
- Cambodia has expressed gratitude for US assistance in retrieving antiquities and supporting humanitarian missions.
- Both countries have emphasized the importance of continued scholarship and exchanges.
In Conclusion:
The strengthened ties between Cambodia and the US underscore the significance of bilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges. As both countries continue to navigate the complexities of an increasingly interconnected world, their partnership is poised to play a critical role in promoting regional stability and advancing peace.