T he first German ambassador to Cambodia for 25 years took up his post on Jan. 5.

Dr. Wiprecht von Treskow's appointment comes after diplomatic relations

were restored between the two countries last October.

At the welcoming

ceremony the ambassador renewed Germany's commitment to Cambodia and promised to

assist Cambodia in its efforts to reconcile and to rehabilitate the

country.

Germany provided medical support during UNTAC's mission and has

helped educate Cambodians.

About 1,000 students have received training at

universities or vocational training centers in Germany.

Von Treskow

replaces Representative to the SNC Wolfgang Lerke, who was famous among the

Phnom Penh diplomatic corps for his solo ventures to the hinterlands of Cambodia

on his motorcycle. Lerke is now on his way to Beirut to become Germany's

ambassador to Lebanon.