In a farewell call held on 03 Jul 2025, Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Mr. Prak Sokhonn, congratulated Ambassador Ermenegildo Kupa Lopes of Timor-Leste to Cambodia on the successful completion of his diplomatic mission in the country.
Cambodia’s commitment to strengthening its bilateral relations with Timor-Leste was highlighted during the farewell call, which took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. H.E. Mr. Sokhonn commended Ambassador Lopes’ dedication to promoting fruitful cooperation between the two countries since April 2020. The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s efforts in facilitating the recent official visit of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, to Timor-Leste.
During the farewell call, H.E. Mr. Sokhonn congratulated Timor-Leste on its progress towards becoming the 11th member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a decision expected in October 2025 in Malaysia. The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged that Cambodia supports Timor-Leste’s aspiration to join ASEAN and looks forward to continuing to cooperate with the country.
Ambassador Lopes praised Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, for his exemplary leadership and noted that his name is well-known and respected in Timor-Leste. The Ambassador also expressed appreciation for Cambodia’s COVID-19 relief assistance to Timor-Leste during the pandemic.
In addition, H.E. Mr. Sokhonn assured Ambassador Lopes that his successor would receive the same cooperation and support from Cambodia. This pledge demonstrates Cambodia’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with its Southeast Asian neighbors and supporting their regional aspirations.
The farewell call between H.E. Mr. Sokhonn and Ambassador Lopes underscores the importance of Cambodia’s role in promoting regional cooperation and strengthening bilateral ties with its ASEAN partners. As Timor-Leste prepares to join ASEAN, Cambodia’s continued support is expected to play a significant role in facilitating its integration into the regional community.
Key Points:
- Cambodia congratulated Ambassador Ermenegildo Kupa Lopes of Timor-Leste on the successful completion of his diplomatic mission.
- The Deputy Prime Minister commended Ambassador Lopes’ efforts in promoting bilateral relations between Cambodia and Timor-Leste since April 2020.
- Cambodia expressed support for Timor-Leste’s progress towards becoming the 11th member of ASEAN, a decision expected in October 2025 in Malaysia.
- The Deputy Prime Minister assured Ambassador Lopes that his successor would receive the same cooperation and support from Cambodia.
In conclusion, the farewell call between H.E. Mr. Sokhonn and Ambassador Lopes highlights Cambodia’s continued commitment to strengthening its bilateral relations with Timor-Leste and supporting its regional aspirations. As Timor-Leste prepares to join ASEAN, Cambodia’s role in promoting regional cooperation will be crucial in facilitating its integration into the regional community.