Phnom Penh: H.E. PRAK Sokhonn, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, welcomed H.E. Bawitlung Vanlalvawna, the newly appointed Ambassador of India to Cambodia, in a significant meeting held at the ministry in Phnom Penh.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during their discussion, H.E. PRAK Sokhonn extended his congratulations to Ambassador Vanlalvawna on his new role and expressed contentment with the enduring friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and India. This relationship is deeply rooted in shared historical and cultural connections. The two diplomats recalled notable visits, including His Majesty the King's State Visit to India in May 2023 and Prime Minister HUN Manet's visit in February 2022. They explored the potential for future exchange visits between the Prime Ministers of both nations.
H.E. PRAK Sokhonn and Ambassador Vanlalvawna celebrated the achievements of the 3rd Foreign Office Consultations held in Siem Reap in March, emphasizing the importance of implementing the agreements reached. They anticipated the forthcoming 3rd Meeting of the Joint Commission between the two Foreign Ministries, aiming to bolster cooperation. The discussion highlighted the expanding bilateral trade and emphasized the need for enhanced economic collaboration through existing mechanisms. The Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister expressed gratitude for India's support in various sectors such as development, heritage conservation, demining, and human resource development.
The diplomats also acknowledged advancements in connectivity, people-to-people exchanges, and tourism, notably with the upcoming launch of direct flights between Phnom Penh and New Delhi in June 2024. Both parties expressed hope for the establishment of additional flight routes to strengthen ties further.
Additionally, they discussed defence and security cooperation, with Ambassador Vanlalvawna appreciating Cambodia's assistance in combating online scams and rescuing victims. He reaffirmed India's commitment to deepening its partnership with Cambodia in all areas of mutual interest.