In a statement released on 02 Jul 2025, Prime Minister Lawrence WONG of the Republic of Singapore paid his first official visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia, marking a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues for cooperation between the two nations.
During the visit, which took place on 2 July 2025, Prime Minister WONG laid wreaths at the Independence Monument and paid tribute to the nation’s heroic forebears. He also paid his respects at the Royal Memorial of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah NORODOM SIHANOUK, “Preah Borom Ratanak Kaudh,” the Late King-Father of Cambodia.
The visit was a testament to the strong historical ties between Singapore and Cambodia, which were first established during the historic friendship between the Late King-Father of Cambodia and the Late Prime Minister LEE Kuan Yew of Singapore. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening political ties, enhancing defense and security cooperation, exploring new areas of economic investment, and promoting people-to-people exchange.
Political Cooperation
Prime Ministers HUN Manet and WONG emphasized the importance of maintaining regular exchanges at all levels, including between executive and legislative bodies, to deepen political ties and explore new areas of collaboration. They welcomed the successful convening of the 2nd Political Consultations between the Foreign Ministries of Cambodia and Singapore on 5 June 2025 in Singapore.
Defense and Security Cooperation
The two leaders reaffirmed their strong commitment to enhancing cooperation in defense and security, particularly in addressing transnational crimes such as cybercrime, online gambling, money laundering, and drug trafficking. They looked forward to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Preventing and Combating Transnational Crimes.
Economic and Investment Cooperation
Amid ongoing global market volatility and uncertainty, both sides concurred that it was imperative to intensify bilateral and intra-regional trade. Prime Minister WONG expressed satisfaction with the steady growth in trade between Cambodia and Singapore and affirmed his commitment to exploring new areas of mutually beneficial economic cooperation.
Education and Capacity Building
The two leaders underscored the importance of collaboration in capacity building and human resource development, identifying Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as one of key areas of focus. Prime Minister HUN Manet expressed his gratitude for Singapore’s longstanding support through the Singapore Cooperation Program and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI).
Energy Cooperation
Both sides recognized the importance of enhancing energy connectivity in the region and encouraged the relevant ministries to accelerate the implementation of commitments made during the 1st Cambodia—Laos-Singapore Energy Ministers’ Meeting, held on 29 May 2024.
Conclusion
The historic visit by Prime Minister Lawrence WONG of Singapore to Cambodia has reaffirmed the strong ties between the two nations and deepened bilateral cooperation in various areas. The visit highlights the importance of regional and international cooperation, particularly within ASEAN, and underscores the need for sustainable economic growth, enhanced energy security, and people-to-people exchange. As Cambodia continues to navigate its role in regional and global affairs, this visit serves as a testament to the country’s commitment to fostering strong relationships with key partners like Singapore.