Newly appointed Japanese ambassador Atsushi Ueno praised Cambodia’s progress in achieving peace, security and becoming a world renowned tourist destination.
He offered his compliments while paying a February 1 courtesy call on President of the Senate Say Chhum.
Atsushi expressed his great pleasure to be on a diplomatic mission in the Kingdom, a country with a long history and rich culture which includes the famous world heritage site Angkor Wat, according to senate press statement.
“He [Atsushi] will strive to contribute to the strengthening of friendly relations and good cooperation between the Parliament, government, and people of the two countries,” it added.
Atsushi said that Japan and Cambodia built a strong and trusting relationship through their close cooperation during the Cambodian peace process and subsequent reconstruction period. This year, 2023, the two countries celebrate their 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations by upgrading their diplomatic relations to a “comprehensive strategic partnership”.
“The ambassador praised the excellent relations and cooperation between the two parliaments as an important factor in driving the relationship to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. He also acknowledged the closeness between the Cambodian Senate and the Japanese upper house, the House of Councillors,” added the statement.
Say Chhum thanked the ambassador for his kind words, which highlighted the friendly relations and good cooperation between Cambodia and Japan. He also praised the excellent cooperation between the two countries’ legislatures, both within the framework of bilateral and international cooperation.
Say Chhum expressed his support for the ambassador’s intention to meet with Cambodians in the provinces to learn more about Khmer culture.
“He is confident the ambassador will serve as a bridge between the two countries’ parliaments,” it said. “Cambodia is always ready to cooperate closely with the ambassador and his embassy to contribute to the strengthening of the friendship between our two peoples. This will be beneficial, both now and in the future.”
Secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia Yang Peou said Cambodia and Japan have upgraded their relationship to improve cooperation and enjoy mutual benefits.
“This year, Cambodia and Japan will celebrate their 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. They upgraded their cooperation to a comprehensive strategic partnership, which will benefit both sides,” he said.
