Phnom penh: The Governments of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste are poised to build a strong partnership, advancing together as least developed countries (LDCs), while continuing to share experiences for mutual development. This initiative was discussed during a meeting between Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, and H.E. Ms. Maria Fernanda Lay, President of the National Parliament of Timor-Leste, at the Senate Palace in Phnom Penh. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the 16th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Caucus, hosted by Cambodia.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Techo Hun Sen emphasized Cambodia's strengths in food security and noted Timor-Leste's potential in energy security, suggesting that these areas of expertise could complement each other. He also expressed confidence in Timor-Leste's upcoming membership in ASEAN, expected in October this year. He noted that since 2011, the country has made significant progress, particularly in human resources.
Samdech Techo reiterated that the inclusion of new ASEAN members should be viewed as a contribution that strengthens the bloc, rather than a burden. He stressed the importance of unity among ASEAN member states to foster regional development.
H.E. Ms. Maria Fernanda Lay, on her first visit to Cambodia, praised the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and exchange experiences. She highlighted the similarities in the histories and challenges faced by both countries, which offer valuable lessons for Timor-Leste. She expressed hope that as ASEAN 'brothers,' Cambodia and Timor-Leste would continue their journey together, enabling Timor-Leste to transform challenges into growth opportunities.