The first memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cultural relations between Cambodia and Brunei and promote cooperation for mutual benefit was signed on August 11.
The virtual signing ceremony was held between Cambodia’s Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports of Brunei Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddinlhsan.
The MoU will strengthen cultural relations and promote cultural exchanges between the two nations. It also aims to promote cultural cooperation based on the principles of equality and mutual benefit.
Keo Kan Virak, director of the culture ministry’s international relations department, told The Post that the MoU marked the first occasion for the two countries to exchange and promote these ideas.
“So, with the government’s permission, the two ministries signed this MoU to promote cooperation in the cultural fields. It is also an opportunity to strengthen relations and exchange experiences of each other both in the arts and other cultural fields,” he said.
He added that the two sides will have a series of meeting in the coming days where their respective specialist teams in charge of cultural work will look at ways to benefit the peoples of both countries.
He continued that over the years, the delegations of both sides have exchanged visits to participate in cultural events and other programmes.
“The two countries have worked together in the past, but not under an MoU. When Cambodia had a cultural programme, we invited Brunei to participate. And when Brunei had cultural activities, we sent a delegation to participate too,” he said.
“Within the framework of ASEAN, we have always had a mutual exchange of delegations in terms of expertise and other areas relating to the cultural sector.”
