Cambodia’s progress owes much to global friends, including significant aid from Germany, said National Assembly (NA) first vice-president Cheam Yeap. 

Yeap met with a German parliamentary delegation led by Tino Chrupalla of the Alternative for Germany party on January 8. 

“Today’s meeting clearly underscores the importance of collaboration between the legislative branches of our two countries. Germany, among other nations, actively supports the legislative branch and the Cambodian government in long-term development across various sectors in Cambodia,” Yeap said on the NA’s official social media account after the meeting.

He expressed gratitude to the parliamentarians, government and people of Germany for aiding Cambodia and local civil society organisations in socio-economic development. 

“The progress and growth seen in Cambodia today owe much to the contributions of friendly nations both regionally and globally,” he said.

Yeap noted that the NA establishes the Cambodia-German Parliamentary Friendship Group during each legislature, fostering strong diplomatic relations through this collaboration.

He mentioned that the legislative branches of both countries have actively shared experiences and parliamentary knowledge. The NA has gained valuable insights from their German counterparts through study trips and programmes.

Chrupalla concurred with Yeap, stating that the meeting had bolstered the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

He complimented Cambodia for its development and growth, noting that the country is on the right path towards peace and stability for further progress.

He noted the importance of addressing Cambodia’s needs, particularly in infrastructure. He plans to raise these concerns with the German parliamentary committee, seeking ways to also support and enhance the nation’s human resources.

In response, Yeap stated that Cambodia’s needs would be addressed in the German parliamentary discussions. He urged both the parliamentary and German government to encourage increased investment and visits from German investors and citizens to Cambodia.