Phnom Penh: Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of Cambodia, received a courtesy call from H.E. Mrs. Milena Caridad Zaldivar Piedra, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cuba to Cambodia, on June 9. In the meeting, Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed appreciation for the Ambassador's efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting South-South cooperation. This year marks the 65th anniversary of Cambodia-Cuba diplomatic relations, reflecting a strong friendship that continues to deepen.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation to address shared global challenges, such as climate change, pandemics, and economic and technological competition. She recalled the valuable contribution of Cuban doctors who assisted Cambodia after its liberation from the Khmer Rouge regime, underscoring Cuba's longstanding solidarity with the Cambodian people.
The meeting also highlighted the role of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Cambodia-Cuba Parliamentary Friendship Group in fostering ties. Ambassador Zaldivar Piedra reaffirmed Cuba's commitment to strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the two countries. On behalf of the President of the National Assembly of Cuba, she extended an invitation to Samdech Khuon Sudary to pay an official visit to Cuba, marking a new milestone in bilateral relations.
The Ambassador stressed the importance of deepening inter-parliamentary dialogue, expanding cooperation across sectors, and engaging younger generations to sustain the legacy of friendship. She recognized Cambodia's role in promoting Global South cooperation and reaffirmed Cuba's position against economic sanctions.
The Ambassador also mentioned the significance of maintaining high-level exchanges, recalling Samdech Techo Hun Sen's historic visit to Cuba in 2022. She noted the fifth anniversary of Cuba's accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, reflecting its engagement with ASEAN, and expressed appreciation for AIPA's role in fostering regional cooperation.
In response, Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed confidence in the growing partnership, reaffirming Cambodia's policy of cherishing longstanding friendships. She underscored the leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen and highlighted recent milestones, such as the Congress of the National Assembly and Senate addressing key national priorities.
Samdech further emphasized the need for preventive measures against extremism, stressing peaceful coexistence as fundamental to Cambodia's foreign policy. She identified agriculture, healthcare, and education as key sectors for further bilateral cooperation, expressing optimism for continued tangible outcomes in the future.