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Articles by Ry Sochan
China's Zhengzhou looks to invest in Cambodian rice for export
September 13, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has announced that a delegation from Zhengzhou, the capital of China’s Henan province, has expressed interest in Cambodian products, including “high-quality and delicious rice”, and intend to process them for export to Chinese and international markets. The intention was shared during a meeting between ministry secretary of state Prak David and a delegation from Zhengzhou on September 9.
Japan provides 55$M to support Phnom Penh grid
September 6, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The government of Japan has announced it will provide approximately $55 million in loans to expand electrical transmission and distribution networks in Phnom Penh, with the goal of stabilising the capital’s power supply.
Cambodia will maintain its cooperation with North Korea in areas of society, security, peace, analysts say
August 29, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Analysts suggest that Cambodia will maintain its cooperation with North Korea in areas of society, security and peace, as the Kingdom seeks stability on the Korean Peninsula. Last week, North Korean ambassador to Cambodia Jang Yun Gon met with Prime Minister Hun Manet in Phnom Penh, according to a post on Manet’s social media.
Cambodia calls on ASEAN to respond to digital inequality challenges
August 27, 2024 PHNOM PENH – A senior Cambodian official called on ASEAN to address the challenges of digital inequality and 21st-century skills development, ensuring that the bloc’s youth can thrive in education within a constantly evolving global context. The appeal was made by Kim Sethany, permanent secretary of state at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, during the 13th ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting (ASED) held on August 25 in Buriram province, Thailand.
Singaporean investors urged to expand activities in Cambodia
PHNOM PENH: A senior official called on existing Singaporean financiers in Cambodia to expand their business and encouraged the country’s potential investors to consider Cambodia as their next destination.
PM Manet seeks quick resolution to Myanmar crisis
August 5, 2024 PHNOM PENH – In a meeting with the Myanmar special envoy, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed hope that the situation there would soon be resolved, while an analyst suggested Myanmar further consider strategies for rebuilding its socio-economic condition.
French defence official pledges military leader exchange visits with Cambodia
August 1, 2024 PHNOM PENH – A French defense official pledged to facilitate exchange visits of military leaders between Cambodia and France and increase efforts to establish a demining training course for Cambodian deminers. The pledge was made during a July 31 meeting between Vong Pisen, commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), and outgoing French defence attache to Cambodia Admiral Frederic Daumas, based in Hanoi, Vietnam, at RCAF Headquarters in Phnom Penh.
Cambodian, Lao military renew pledge on preventing cross-border crime
July 31, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The Cambodian and Lao military reiterated their commitment to enhanced information exchange to prevent transnational crime, particularly terrorism and human and drug trafficking. The pledge was made during a bilateral meeting on July 30 between Vong Pisen, commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), and Lao Deputy Minister of National Defense and chief of the general staff of the Lao People’s Army, Khamlieng Outhakaysone, in Phnom Penh.
Mekong-ROK nations pledge stronger partnership for mutual prosperity
July 31, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The countries of the Mekong-Republic of Korea (ROK) Cooperation pledged to strengthen their partnership to promote mutually beneficial development and prosperity in the Mekong sub-region. The commitment was made at the 12th Mekong-ROK Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on July 26 in Vientiane, Laos. Member countries of the alliance include Korea, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam.
ASEAN meeting urges constructive dialogue for regional peace
July 30, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea called on ASEAN member states to urge constructive dialogue and practical cooperation in building mutual trust to maintain peace and stability. Chenda Sophea, also deputy prime minister, made the call at the 31st ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) on July 27 in Vientiane, Laos.
Cambodia reiterates commitment to implement “effective” Asean vision
PHNOM PENH: Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sok Chenda Sophea reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to effectively implement the Asean Community Vision 2025 to strengthen the bond among members of the bloc. Chenda Sophea, also deputy prime minister, made the statement at the 57th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Vientiane, Laos on Thursday (July 25).
Cambodia, Philippines push for direct flights, increased trade volume
July 18, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Philippine ambassador to Cambodia Flerida Ann Camille P. Mayo (left) shakes hands with Prime Minister Hun Manet, during their July 16 meeting in Phnom Penh. STPM Cambodia and the Philippines have embraced the resumption of direct flights between Siem Reap province and Cebu in the Philippines, as well as increased agricultural exports and trade volume.
Xi Jinping Boulevard in Phnom Penh set for official opening
July 18, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The inauguration ceremony of “Xi Jinping Boulevard”, named after the current president of China, will be held on July 19 in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, first vice president of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC). The ceremony will take place at the Win-Win Boulevard roundabout on the south of the National Road 4 flyover in the village of Choam Chao II commune’s Chompou Voan II, in Phnom Penh’s Por Senchey district.
Cambodian, Vietnamese leaders vow to expand ties, no discussion on Funan Techo Canal
July 16, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Cambodian and Vietnamese leaders pledged to strengthen and expand cooperation between the two countries for mutual benefit. A government spokesman confirmed that the Funan Techo Canal – which is set to break ground next month – was not on the agenda during the talks. “Vietnam and Cambodia will continue to strengthen ties and cooperation based on the spirit of good neighbourliness and similar culture.
Toyota to open automotive training school in Cambodia
July 10, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Japanese giant Toyota has announced the opening of an automotive training school in Cambodia. Prime Minister Hun Manet encouraged the company to explore the possibility of expanding the scope of training to Cambodian youth to meet the needs of the automotive manufacturing job market, both domestically and internationally. Ryoji Fujita, managing director of Toyota Tsusho Manufacturing Cambodia, announced the initiative during a July 8 meeting with Manet in Phnom Penh.
New governors for eight provinces in Cambodia
June 26, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Eight provinces have seen new governors appointed by Royal Decree, with four current governors being transferred to new locations and four former deputy governors being promoted. The four governors who have completed their terms have been appointed as secretaries of state at the Ministry of Interior. The eight provinces are Stung Treng, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Sihanouk, Kampong Thom, Takeo, Kampong Speu, Kandal and Tbong Khmum.
PM Manet recalls Cambodia-Vietnam mutual assistance in liberating the country
June 21, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet recalled how Cambodia aided Vietnam’s liberation, which led to national cohesion and growth, and how Vietnam also helped Cambodia in liberating itself from the Khmer Rouge regime and fostering the country’s development. “The leaders of our two countries, Cambodia and Vietnam, have always said [the two countries] have a history of helping each other in gaining independence from colonial rule.
PMs Manet, Wong pledge closer Cambodian-Singaporean ties
June 20, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The leaders of Cambodia and Singapore have vowed to promote stronger and more prosperous cooperation between the two countries, by continuing regular political consultations between the two countries’ ministries of foreign affairs. The commitment was made during a bilateral meeting between Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Prime Minister Hun Manet on June 18 during Manet’s two-day official visit to Singapore from June 18-19.
Cambodia, Australia agree to increase cross-border crime cooperation
June 18, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia and Australia agreed to deepen cooperation in the fight against transnational crime, with Australia pledging to provide cybercrime training to Cambodian police officers. The two sides made the commitment during a meeting between senior Australian officials and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha, as he led a high-level delegation from the ministry to pay a one-week visit to Australia, which concluded on June 16.
In Cambodia, Chinese financing nears 50% of total investment in May, US lags at less than 1%
June 11, 2024 PHNOM PENH – In May, Chinese investment in Cambodia accounted for almost 50% of total financing, with domestic investment accounting for over 30%, while the US lagged behind at less than one per cent, according to the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC). The council approved 24 new projects last month, along with one production expansion project, with a total investment of more than $246 million, creating about 15,000 jobs, according to the CDC’s June 10 report.
US Secretary of Defence arrives in Cambodia for historic visit
June 5, 2024 PHNOM PENH – US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin arrived in Cambodia this morning for his first official visit to Cambodia. The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence announced on social media that Dam Dariny, the Ministry’s Secretary of State, welcomed Austin on June 4.
Cambodia, South Korea announce ‘strategic partnership’ during visit by PM Manet
May 20, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia and South Korea have agreed to elevate their bilateral relations to a “strategic partnership” and will strengthen exchanges and cooperation in several areas. The agreement was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Hun Manet and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on May 16, during Manet’s May 15-18 visit to South Korea. Following the meeting, the two sides issued a joint statement.
ASEAN calls for increased efforts to combat arms smuggling
May 10, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Senior ASEAN officials have urged the bloc’s member states to increase cooperation and establish new mechanisms to curb arms smuggling within the region, noting that the smuggling of arms is a growing threat to regional stability. The call was made during the 6th ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) working group on arms smuggling event, hosted by Cambodia on May 8 in Siem Reap.
PM Manet hails new ASEAN-connected single window service
May 9, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet has explained that Cambodia’s national single window service will facilitate trade in the Kingdom more effectively by switching from paper to a paperless system. He added that the new mechanism is connected to the ASEAN single window portal, meaning it will be capable of exchanging data with the bloc’s other member countries.
Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen requests video meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi
May 8, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Senate president Hun Sen has asked Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing to consider organising a video conference between himself and former Myanmar civil government leader Aung San Suu Kyi for the purpose of paying an “online visit”. Hun Sen made the request during a May 7 video conference with Min Aung Hlaing, chairman of the State Administration Council (SAC). The meeting was held to share updates on recent developments in Myanmar.
Cambodia becoming key global rice exporter
March 27, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia has become a key exporter in the global food security landscape, exporting upwards of 650,000 tonnes of milled rice over 2.7 million tonnes of unmilled rice to more than 50 destinations in 2023. As a key food producer, the Kingdom has established a long-term vision to enhance its contribution to global food security.
Japanese ambassador discusses Japan-Cambodia ties
March 26, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Following the upgrading of Cambodia-Japan bilateral relations to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” last year, a senior Japanese diplomat has underscored that although the two countries’ bilateral ties are currently sufficiently robust and positive, he urges that they be further strengthened. The upgrade took place in 2023, as the two countries marked the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
ASEAN review notes digital literacy gap despite high access to internet
March 22, 2024 PHNOM PENH – A new report from the ASEAN Foundation has found that 30 per cent of the Cambodian population possesses basic media and digital literacy skills, while 67.5 per cent of the population has internet access. The report, released on March 20, found that the Kingdom faces a significant digital literacy gap, in spite of its rapid adoption of digital technology.
Pundits on shift in US-Cambodia relations
March 12, 2024 PHNOM PENH – In late February, senior US diplomats and defence officials met with high-ranking Cambodian leaders in what analysts suggest is a strategic shift by the US towards enhancing mutual understanding, moving away from their previous minimal dialogue approach. Kin Phea, director of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, opined that he has not as yet seen any signs that Cambodia-US relations have improved.
Cambodia’s Senate election sees CPP dominate advance results
February 26, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The fifth Senate election went smoothly and peacefully, with the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) leading the vote at each of the voting stations which the Ministry of Information provided provisional results for. The election kicked off at 7am and ended at 3pm, with 11,747 eligible voters, consisting of incumbent lawmakers and commune council members, casting their ballots at 33 polling stations across eight regions nationwide.
Indonesia becomes 1st non-Mekong nation to sign MoU with Mekong River Commission
January 30, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Indonesia and the Mekong River Commission (MRC) have inked a historic memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will see the start of closer cooperation in the fields of disaster risk reduction, water resource management, climate change adaptation and sustainable development.
The French connection: exploration of long links
January 19, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The relationship between France and Cambodia is a long-standing one, deeply rooted in a long and vibrant history. The French consider the relationship a trustworthy one, as is reflected by its close cooperation and support as the Kingdom prepares for future challenges. France has also voiced its support for Cambodia’s bid to host the 2026 Francophone Summit, a gathering of the leaders of countries from all across the French-speaking world.
ASEAN-Japan share vision of ‘trusted partner’ relationship
December 19, 2023 PHNOM PENH – JAPAN and ASEAN have highlighted their shared vision of deepening their friendship and cooperation as “trusted partners”, as they gathered in the Japanese capital Tokyo on December 17 at the commemorative summit for the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. The summit assessed the achievements of their relations over the past decades and set future direction.
EU gifts Cambodia $7 million for fisheries reforms
December 5, 2023 PHNOM PENH – To aid in the reform of Cambodia’s fisheries sector, approximately $7 million in funding has been allocated by the EU for the effort. The announcement was made during a meeting between EU ambassador Igor Driesmans and Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina, held at the ministry’s headquarters in Phnom Penh on December 4.
Laos prepares to accept ASEAN chair against backdrop of Myanmar crisis
December 4, 2023 PHNOM PENH – In just a month, Laos is set to succeed Indonesia as the ASEAN chair for 2024, taking the helm amid ongoing challenges. Foremost among these is the unresolved crisis in Myanmar, a persistent internal issue for the bloc.
Mekong River issues prompt ministry call for collaboration
December 1, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology, Thor Chetha, stated the need for a unified strategy to address the challenges confronting the Mekong River. The Mekong River Commission stated that the river is encountering difficulties attributed to the impacts of both development and a changing climate along the Southeast Asia’s largest river.
Assessing Myanmar situation: Consensus needed for solution
November 24, 2023 PHNOM PENH – The crisis in Myanmar persists to this day. During Cambodia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2022, the Kingdom made efforts to establish trust between ASEAN and Myanmar. Similarly, Indonesia, the current chair in 2023, has consistently pursued a strategy of direct negotiations to address the crisis. Despite this, the plight of Myanmar continues. Analysts have described two key factors that are contributing to the ongoing crisis in the country.
China restate commitment to 'diamond cooperation'
China restate commitment to 'diamond cooperation' Cambodia and China have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the "diamond cooperation" framework and deepen the building of a "community of common destiny". The two nations plan to celebrate 2024 as the year of people-to-people exchanges, to promote investment and tourism.
PM tells Preah Sihanouk to step up law, order
PM tells Preah Sihanouk to step up law, order Prime Minister Hun Manet has instructed the Preah Sihanouk provincial authorities to maintain security and protect public order and to pay particular attention to popular tourist destinations and industrial areas, noting that this will contribute to attracting visitors and investors. Manet met with over 15,000 workers from factories in the province's Cambodian Zhejiang Guoji Special Economic Zone on November 7.
UK reaffirms its commitment to ASEAN growth
November 7, 2023 PHNOM PENH – The UK has reiterated its commitment to working closely with ASEAN and the bloc’s partners in support of peace, stability and economic growth in the region, while respecting ASEAN centrality. The commitment came as ASEAN secretary-general Kao Kim Hourn wrapped up his first official visit to London on November 3. The visit reaffirmed the growth of the partnership since the UK became an ASEAN dialogue partner in 2021.
ASEAN-UK collaboration focuses on key priority areas
ASEAN-UK collaboration focuses on key priority areas ASEAN and the UK are set to strengthen their cooperation, as stated during a three-day visit by ASEAN secretary-general Kao Kim Hourn to London from November 1-3. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) announced that Kim Hourn would engage with senior leaders from government, business and academia to advance ASEAN-UK cooperation.
Cambodia to host ASEAN science, technology, conference in 2024
October 27, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia will host the 20th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation (AMMSTI-20) and related meetings in early June 2024, as it is set to assume the rotating chairmanship of the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation (COSTI). The AMMSTI-20 is slated to take place in Siem Reap province, according to the outcomes of the 84th COSTI (COSTI-84) and related meetings, held in Bohol, the Philippines, on October 16-20.
ASEAN denounce Myanmar attack on displaced persons
October 20, 2023 PHNOM PENH – ASEAN has denounced the reported bombardment of a camp for displaced people in Myanmar’s Kachin State. The attack occurred about ten days ago and purportedly resulted in the deaths of 28 civilians, including at least 12 children.
Cambodia takes part in key cybersecurity forum
Cambodia takes part in key cybersecurity forum Cambodia is actively participating in the 8th Singapore International Cyber Week (SICW) and the 8th ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity (AMCC), along with the 9th ASEAN Senior Officials Roundtable on Cybercrime (SORC) scheduled from October 16 to 19 in Singapore. Por Pheak, secretary of state at the Ministry of Interior, led a high-level delegation from the ministry to attend the meetings on October 16.
Green Diplomacy Week underway
Green Diplomacy Week underway ASEAN and the EU launched the start of "EU-ASEAN Green Diplomacy Week 2023" in Indonesia's capital Jakarta, with an October 15 fun run, walk and cycling event. EU ambassador to ASEAN Sujiro Seam, deputy secretary-general for the ASEAN socio-cultural community Ekkaphab Phanthavong and ambassador/permanent representative of the Philippines to ASEAN Hjayceelyn Mancenido Quintana all oversaw the official launch ceremony.
Safety of Khmer in Israel remains a 'top priority'
Manet: Safety of Khmer in Israel remains a 'top priority' Prime Minister Hun Manet has set the safety of all Cambodians nationals remaining in Israel as a top priority, saying the government is working closely with its Israeli counterparts to ensure they receive protection.
Collaboration now essential
MRC release Mekong study: Collaboration now essential Climate-caused drought has adversely affected the Mekong River in recent years, from the historic low flows of 2019-2021 to the rare "reverse flow" that has shrunk Cambodia's vital Tonle Sap Lake. Water infrastructure development is also a contributing factor, impacting the natural flow with increased dry season flow and reduced flood season flow.
MRC forum underscores Luang Prabang's focus on transparency
MRC forum underscores Luang Prabang's focus on transparency The Mekong River Commission (MRC) held its 13th regional stakeholder forum in Luang Prabang, Laos on October 5 to offer participants updates on water-resource developments along the Mekong River, southeast Asia's largest river, which affects tens of millions of lives.
Pheaktra, Thai journos to combat 'fake news'
Pheaktra, Thai journos to combat 'fake news' Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra met with Thai ambassador Cherdkiat Atthakor and a delegation from the Journalists Association of Thailand at the ministry headquarters in Phnom Penh on October 2 to discuss strengthening information cooperation in order to combat misinformation, said a ministry press release. "The longer we allow fake news to spread widely, the more seriously it affects society and the people.
Australia finance NGOs, 49 major community projects
Australia finance NGOs, 49 major community projects Australia has pledged A$7.9 million ($5 million) to support 26 Australian NGOs in collaboration with Cambodian counterparts, aiming to initiate 49 community projects across all provinces. Australian deputy ambassador Andreas Zurbrugg announced the commitment during the "Australia-Cambodia NGO Consultation 2023", which saw participation from over 70 local and international civil society organisations.
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