Hun Manet, deputy commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) and commander of the army, met with outgoing Japanese ambassador Masahiro Mikami on December 14 to discuss the progress of Cambodia-Japan relationships.
Mikami praised the success of the bilateral relationship, saying a comprehensive strategic partnership would be implemented in 2023 during the observation of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Japan.
He complimented Cambodia for its leadership of November’s 40th and 41st ASEAN summits and relevant meetings, and for its contribution to resolving regional and global crises, including the Myanmar and Ukraine crises. He offered special praise to the Kingdom for its success in controlling the Covid-19 pandemic.
Manet mentioned the support of Japan and its people for the Cambodian peace process and the rebuilding of the nation.
He also recalled assistance in the form of vaccines, ambulances, vaccine cabinets, medical equipment and concessional loans to Cambodia in response to the Covid-19 crisis.
“This reflects a close spiritual connection. We help one another as friends,” he added.
Manet thanked Mikami for his efforts over the past three years and hoped that relations and cooperation between the two countries would continue to grow.
Cambodian Institute for Democracy (CID) president Pa Chanroeun, said Japan has been a major donor and development partner of Cambodia since the Paris Peace Agreement of October 23, 1991, both in terms of physical and human resource development.
“Japan's diplomatic gestures towards Cambodia – through various grants and development assistance – have enhanced relations and cooperation between Cambodia and Japan,” he added.
Royal Academy of Cambodia secretary-general Yang Peou said bilateral relations between Cambodia and Japan have deepened. Japan should value the development of Cambodia and Cambodia ought to implement a diplomatic policy towards Japan.
“Cambodia-Japan relations will be further deepened in the future. At the ASEAN Summits, the two heads of government set 2023 to enhance comprehensive relations,” he added.
Cambodia-Japan relations have lasted for 69 years, with 2023 marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Both sides set the year to develop the relationship into a comprehensive strategic partnership.
