Sihanoukville: Senior officials from Cambodia and the United States marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations with a commemorative tree-planting ceremony today at O' Chheuteal 2 Beach in Sihanoukville. The event also paid tribute to the 1967 inauguration of the John F. Kennedy Boulevard.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the ceremony was attended by H.E. Mang Sineth, Governor of Preah Sihanouk province, and Ms. Bridgette L. Walker, Charg© d'Affaires a.i. of the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia, along with their respective delegations. In his address, Governor Mang Sineth highlighted the event as a symbol of the growing partnership between the two nations, emphasising that their cooperation continues to strengthen for mutual benefit. He noted that diplomatic ties, first established in 1950, have reached a significant 75-year milestone in 2025.
The governor commended the U.S. Embassy's recent initiatives in the province, led by Ms. Walker, as part of 'U.S. Embassy Week.' The week-long programme featured a series of activities, including the distribution of educational supplies to students, promotion of U.S. scholarship opportunities for Cambodian youth, and bilateral meetings with the provincial administration. Key events included the unveiling of a commemorative signboard along National Road No. 4 to celebrate the 75th anniversary and a solidarity dinner. Health programmes focused on HIV/AIDS awareness were also conducted, alongside a documentary screening that addressed the investigation of stolen Cambodian antiquities.
Governor Mang Sineth specifically referenced a bilateral meeting with Ms. Walker on Aug. 28, which preceded the unveiling of the signboard. He underscored the historical significance of National Road No. 4, which was constructed with U.S. assistance between 1955 and 1960. He described the road as a "vital artery" of the national economy, crucial for linking the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port to the rest of the country's transport network. The governor invoked the adage, "Where there is a road, there is hope," to illustrate its transformative impact.
The ceremony also honored the 1967 visit of former U.S. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who was invited by the then His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk. Her visit led to the inauguration of the John F. Kennedy Boulevard in tribute to the 35th U.S. President. The governor stated that these activities underscore the deepening international diplomatic ties between the two nations.
In her remarks, Ms. Bridgette L. Walker expressed gratitude to the Preah Sihanouk provincial administration and its residents for their successful collaboration on "U.S. Embassy Week in Preah Sihanouk 2025," which took place from Aug. 26 to 30. She noted that the activities-including school supply distribution, youth engagement, the signboard unveiling, tree-planting, health programmes, and cultural heritage initiatives-all proceeded smoothly, reinforcing the bonds of friendship and partnership.
Governor Mang Sineth concluded by extending an invitation to tourists and investors to visit Preah Sihanouk, highlighting the province's commitment to ensuring the security, safety, and comfort of all visitors while maintaining clean and welcoming beaches.