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Articles by Samban Chandara
How Diamond Hexagon Cooperation Framework Boosts Cambodia and China Ties
Prime Minister Hun Manet attended the official welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of People in Beijing, accompanied by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, on Sept. 15. Photo from STPM By: Samban Chandara 22, August 2024 , 9:50 AM China continues to hold a central position in Cambodia’s foreign policy despite changes in the geopolitical landscape of both countries. Growing ties were exemplified through the establishment of the Diamond Hexagon Cooperation Framework in early 2023.
North Koreans still forced to work in foreign countries by Pyongyang regime
TUCKED away in a corner of the Trong Moan village, Phnom Penh’s Sen Sok district, Cambodia, was a popular physical therapy business known as Kantai Cabinet. According to the villagers, the “clinic” was popular with the neighbourhood residents with around three or four patients visiting it per day. Most of the clients were repeat customers or friends of the owners, with many going there after getting glowing recommendations from friends or relatives.
Cambodian People’s Party, Thailand’s ruling Pheu Thai set to enhance links
March 19, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The leader of Thailand’s ruling Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, also known as Ung Ing, paid a two-day visit to Cambodia to meet with her Cambodian counterpart and other leaders, with both sides vowing to strengthen their relationship.
Cambodia’s defence minister warns against a divided ASEAN
March 7, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Minister of National Defence Tea Seiha called on the ASEAN member states to work together and avoid division due to geopolitical interests, noting that failure to do so could cause insecurity or result in new conflict, as well as worsening existing regional tensions. Seiha made his remarks during the March 4-6 ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat and related meetings, held in Luang Prabang, Laos.
Cambodia, Myanmar seek to boost bilateral relations
March 5, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Senate president Say Chhum stated that the Cambodian government is ready to collaborate with Myanmar to enhance bilateral relations between the two nations, acknowledging the ongoing progress of their traditionally cooperative ties. Chuum made the remarks during a March 4 meeting with newly-appointed Myanmar ambassador to Cambodia Kyaw Soe Min.
Malaysian PM welcomes PM Manet, pledges closer ties
February 29, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Following a one-day visit to Malaysia by Prime Minister Hun Manet, Cambodia and the predominantly Muslim nation have agreed to deepen their bilateral collaboration in various sectors. During the February 27 visit, the two countries also committed to further strengthening their relationship, Manet and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim announced at their joint press conference.
Former Cambodian PM Hun Sen pays ‘personal’ visit on Thaksin, invites daughter
February 22, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Former Prime Minister Hun Sen, president of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), has invited Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra to visit Cambodia in March, as he paid a call on his former Thai counterpart Thaksin Shinawatra at his mansion in western Bangkok on February 21.
‘Blacklist’ to promote human rights, protect society: PM Manet
February 22, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet has clarified that maintaining a database of dismissed state employees does not violate human right, but promotes them. He said he has agreed to a request by Minister of Interior Sar Sokha, who asked to work with the Ministry of National Defence and the Ministry of Civil Service to prepare a “blacklist” of civil servants dismissed from their positions due to involvement with illegal drugs.
Cambodia, New Zealand fortify longstanding ties of peace
February 15, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Foreign minister Sok Chenda Sophea praised the 65-year-long relationship between Cambodia and New Zealand, highlighting the latter’s significant role in the Kingdom’s peace process and socio-economic development. The minister’s appreciation was conveyed during a telephone conversation with his New Zealand counterpart Winston Peterson on February 12, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation the next day.
ADB up climate mitigation, adaptation funding to $10 billion
February 6, 2024 PHNOM PENH – The Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) vow to increase climate financing assistance to developing countries in Asia and the Pacific has drawn plaudits from the Cambodian government. A January 31 ADB press release outlined the progress of its commitment to the fight against climate change, especially through supporting the efforts of developing countries in Asia and the Pacific to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the effects of global warming.
Cambodia still committed to strong ASEAN-EU relations
February 5, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Foreign minister Sok Chenda Sophea has expressed Cambodia’s commitment to enhancing the ASEAN-EU Strategic Partnership, noting that it is based on mutual respect, understanding and interests.
Multifaceted cooperation heightened between Cambodia and Germany
February 1, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia and Germany have reaffirmed their unwavering dedication to enhancing both bilateral and multilateral cooperation in various areas, including politics, economy, trade, education, tourism, climate change, environmental protection and relations between national assemblies.
Japan finance minister set for ‘strategic visit’ to Cambodia
December 29, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Government spokesperson Pen Bona expresses optimism about Japanese finance minister Shunichi Suzuki’s “strategic visit” to the Kingdom, reportedly set for early January, regarding it as another pivotal moment in Cambodia-Japan ties. Suzuki reportedly announced at a December 26 press conference his intention to visit Sri Lanka and Cambodia from January 4-9 to strengthen ties with the two Asian nations.
Cambodia urges global action on climate change at COP28
December 12, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia urged collaboration for effective climate resilience, as Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth reiterated the nation’s commitment to addressing climate change at the Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP28) in Dubai. Despite being a low emitter of CO2, the Kingdom is dedicated to playing a pivotal role in global efforts, acknowledging its vulnerability to climate change. “Cambodia, like other nations, has made progress since the Paris Agreement.
Cambodia’s environment minister welcomes forest co-op
December 11, 2023 TOKYO – Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth has reiterated Cambodia’s stance on the management of its natural resources, including the launch of a campaign which will distribute one million saplings each year to members of the public to plant. The initiative aims to cultivate the consciences of the people, especially students, and encourage them to love and care for the Kingdom’s forests.
Cambodian Army exchange bolsters cooperation with S’pore
December 8, 2023 PHNOM PENH – A singaporean young army delegation visited Cambodia as part of the Royal Cambodian Army-Singapore Armed Forces (RAC-SAF) Junior Officers Exchange Programme, aiming to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen cooperation within the Cambodia-Singapore bilateral mechanism and the ASEAN regional framework.
Cambodia and China pledge close military cooperation
December 7, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet on December 4 met with He Weidong, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of China, to discuss continued military cooperation through agreements between their respective defence ministries on human resource training and demining operations.
Cambodian Human Rights Committee highlights gains under new mandate
December 7, 2023 PHNOM PENH – The Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) has presented three of its most significant achievements during the first 100 days of the seventh-mandate government. It claimed that the accomplishments demonstrate its commitment to advancing human rights in Cambodia, in line with the government’s Pentagonal Strategy.
Cambodia’s King meets with Macron, France assures future support
November 17, 2023 PHNOM PENH – King Norodom Sihamoni granted an audience to French President Emmanuel Macron at Paris’ Elysee Palace, during his official visit to France. The French president pledged continued assistance in the health and cultural sectors, and encouraged the Kingdom’s candidacy to host a 2026 Francophone event.
Cambodia to join Asian nations in counter-terrorism training
November 14, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia is set to take part in the Aman Youyi 2023 multi-national military exercises on counter-terrorism and maritime security. The drills are being hosted by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, with the participation of UN representatives and members of the armed forces of six Asian countries.
RCAF, South Korea, UN conduct heavy equipment training
RCAF, South Korea, UN conduct heavy equipment training Engineers from the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) have embarked on a four-week training course at the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces [NPMEC]. The intense drills, overseen by South Korean military instructors, will focus on the use of heavy machinery to build horizontal construction, typically bridges, roads and airfields.
Hun Sen urges Middle East peace
Hun Sen urges Middle East peace Former Prime Minister Hun Sen, who now serves as president of the Supreme Privy Council to the King, has called on Palestine-based Hamas to release its hostages and on Israel to keep their promise of not bombing civilians in Gaza. He warned that if the conflict continues, the region will become the world's largest graveyard.
Cambodia, Vietnam applaud defence ties
November 8, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Cambodia and Vietnam have shared their mutual appreciation for the progress of their defence ties, noting that their closeness stems from recent visitor exchanges between the two militaries. Both sides believe that the visits have made a significant contribution to strengthening and expanding their bonds of friendship, cooperation and solidarity.
Cambodia’s public debt within limit, says PM Manet
November 6, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet has addressed public concerns regarding public debt, assuring that it will not escalate to an unmanageable level or lead to a ‘debt trap’. He explained that Cambodia’s foreign loans are utilised for the country’s development.
IMF lauds Cambodia's fiscal vigor, anti-laundering efforts
IMF lauds Cambodia's fiscal vigor, anti-laundering efforts The International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Article IV Consultation team has recognised Cambodia for its robust actions against money laundering and terrorism financing.
Kingdom's public debt within limit, says Manet
Kingdom's public debt within limit, says Manet Prime Minister Hun Manet has addressed public concerns regarding public debt, assuring that it will not escalate to an unmanageable level or lead to a 'debt trap'. He explained that Cambodia's foreign loans are utilised for the country's development.
Seiha urges peace at Beijing forum
Seiha urges peace at Beijing forum Tea Seiha, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, called on all countries involved in current conflicts to employ a culture of dialogue and diplomatic mechanisms to resolve their disagreements, rather than the threat or use of force. Enhancing communication, he said, is the best pathway to creating the kind of stability needed for development.
PM Manet faces down critics of policies as short-sighted
October 31, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet has refuted claims by unnamed critics that the government’s development policy only serves the ruling party and a powerful few, describing such criticism as “narrow-minded”. Speaking to nearly 20,000 factory workers in Phnom Penh on October 28, Manet said his group consists of more than 17 million people, with the majority having voted for his Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) to lead the country.
Japan and Cambodia unite in fight against online fraud
Japan and Cambodia unite in fight against online fraud The National Police Agency of Japan (NPA) has urged their Cambodian counterparts to intensify their efforts in curbing online fraud, as Japanese citizens have reportedly lost billions of US dollars to such crimes. The Japanese delegation, led by NPA's director-general of international cooperation Tomoki Sano, met with National Police chief Sar Thet during the 41st ASEANAPOL Conference in the Lao capital Vientiane from October 17 to 19.
Peace cannot be won through war: Cambodia PM
October 25, 2023 PHNOM PENH – As October 23 marks the anniversary of the Paris Peace Agreements, Prime Minister Hun Manet used the occasion to highlight how it is possible to end conflict through peace talks, rather than the continued use of force. He issued a statement via social media on October 22, the day before the 23rd anniversary of the accords, signed in 1991. His post was accompanied by a 30-minute documentary explaining the significance of the agreements, and how they came about.
Inspection minister discusses accountability, oversight
Inspection minister discusses accountability, oversight King Norodom Sihamoni issued a royal decree enacting the law that establishes the Ministry of Inspection on October 5. This followed its passage through the National Assembly in mid-September, a subsequent review by the Senate on September 21 and the Constitutional Council's approval on September 28.
ICAPP applauds Kingdom's commitment to peace
ICAPP applauds Kingdom's commitment to peace Representatives of 26 political parties from 16 countries across Asia and Europe have commended the Cambodian government for its "promotion of peace, democracy and religious freedom". They made the statement following the 40th International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) and the 5th Asia Europe Political Forum, held on October 13-16 in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu.
CHRC report progress with human rights talks with UN
CHRC report progress with human rights talks with UN The Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) has announced the "success" of recent human rights dialogue between the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) and the UN Office at Geneva. It noted that the talks had made a significant contribution to the implementation of a comprehensive partnership between ASEAN and the UN for the sake of the peoples of ASEAN.
PM set to address BRI forum in Beijing, confirm closeness
PM set to address BRI forum in Beijing, confirm closeness Prime Minister Hun Manet is leading a delegation to the 3rd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, China, where he is expected to reiterate Cambodia's commitment to supporting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and continued close cooperation with China.
Cross-sectoral task force established to counter 'false, misleading news'
Cross-sectoral task force established to counter 'false, misleading news' The Ministry of Information is set to create a collaborative information working group involving all ministries and state institutions. This initiative aims to foster swift responses to false and misleading news pertaining to any ministry or institution, aligning with the government's vision to transform the information ministry into a public relations arm of the government.
Hun Sen lauds stability under new gov't
Hun Sen lauds stability under new gov't In his first public appearance since resigning as prime minister, Hun Sen has announced his pleasure at the fact that Cambodians appear to be comfortable under the new government, and are continuing to live in an atmosphere of peace and positive development.
TYDA treat over 500K infirmed
TYDA treat over 500K infirmed For nearly 11 years, the Samdech Techo Voluntary Youth Doctor Association (TYDA), led by Prime Minister Hun Manet and his spouse Pich Chanmony, has been offering free medical examinations and treatment. To date, it has examined more than 500,000 patients, referred more than 7,000 to hospitals and performed heart surgery on 66 patients.
ACU plans to deploy over 3,000 observers for Grade 12 exams
ACU plans to deploy over 3,000 observers for Grade 12 exams The Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) plans to deploy more than 3,000 volunteer observers to oversee the Grade 12 examinations set to take place on November 6-7. ACU spokesperson Soy Chanvichet said the body had successfully collaborated with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport for nine years to uphold transparency and equity in exam procedures.
Campaign seeking to end online child abuse
Campaign seeking to end online child abuse An online safety awareness campaign is underway to promote safe social media use and combat online child abuse, particularly among girls and young women. The month-long campaign was launched on October 7 by the Cambodia branch of Holland's rights group Terra des Hommes (TdH) in collaboration with the AusCam Freedom Project - a women's rights and anti-trafficking NGO - through the Safety for Children and their Rights Online (SCROL) project.
King, PM offer condolences to family of youth killed in Israel
King, PM offer condolences to family of youth killed in Israel King Norodom Sihamoni offered his condolences to the family of 24-year-old Chan Oudom, a Cambodian agriculture student who was killed in October 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas militants, while studying there. The King mourned the loss of the student. Prime Minister Hun Manet also sent his condolences to Oudom's bereaved family.
Sar Sokha calls on NCAT to intensify anti-torture efforts
Sar Sokha calls on NCAT to intensify anti-torture efforts Minister of Interior Sar Sokha has urged the National Committee Against Torture (NCAT) to intensify their educational outreach and to expand collaboration with relevant authorities and organisations to bolster the respect for human rights and to tackle torture, cruelty and the degradation of societal ethics.
Manet redirects $200M to social programmes
Manet redirects $200M to social programmes Prime Minister Hun Manet said the state has saved over $200 million through the suspension of non-urgent research and case study projects. He has directed the funding towards more pressing target, such as the expansion of social protection and disaster relief. "In recent days, I ordered the suspension of funding to several non-essential tasks. I have saved over $200 million this year.
Asean agriculture minister meeting focuses on resilience and food security
October 5, 2023 PHNOM PENH – The ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) have reached agreements on various documents, encompassing strategic guidance, technical matters and joint communication, reaffirming their commitment to cooperation in matters of food security, agriculture and forestry. This development was communicated through an official statement from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries on an October 4 social media post.
Cambodia, Laos to strengthen military ties, border security
Cambodia, Laos to strengthen military ties, border security Cambodia and Laos have expressed their commitment to bolstering military cooperation, with the goal of enhancing regional peace, stability and the well-being of their citizens.
Ministry describes int'l security cooperation drills, missions of '24
Ministry describes int'l security cooperation drills, missions of '24 The Ministry of National Defence reported robust security cooperation in the past nine months, highlighting several military drills and peacekeeping missions, as well as participation in regional and global forums. According to an October 2 report from the ministry, Cambodia conducted two joint military exercises this year: Golden Dragon 2023 and Peace Angel 2023, both in collaboration with China.
Senate report highlights results, expectations of new government
Senate report highlights results, expectations of new government The Senate has called on the new government to follow the model set by the previous mandate, while working to resolve any remaining issues and paying close attention to the well-being and needs of the people. In an October 2 activity report, it noted its appreciation for the work of the sixth-mandate government, which accomplished economic growth of 5.6 per cent while strengthened democratic principles.
Cambodian ministry taking steps over Thai ‘replica’ of Angkor Wat
October 3, 2023 PHNOM PENH – The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has dispatched experts to inspect the ongoing construction of a temple in Wat Phu Man Fah, located in Thailand’s Buriram province. This temple appears to be a replica of Cambodia’s renowned Angkor Wat. The ministry said it is committed to safeguarding the integrity of ancestral heritage and will take all necessary measures to address this concern.
ASEAN seeks enhanced regional business links
ASEAN seeks enhanced regional business links Cambodia is urging stronger business ties among ASEAN member states to address challenges faced by the bloc's economic community in order to boost global exports and regional economic growth. The Kingdom has also encouraged potential partners to explore business prospects in the country.
Ministry taking steps over Thai 'replica' of Angkor Wat
Ministry taking steps over Thai 'replica' of Angkor Wat The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has dispatched experts to inspect the ongoing construction of a temple in Wat Phu Man Fah, located in Thailand's Buriram province. This temple appears to be a replica of Cambodia's renowned Angkor Wat. The ministry said it is committed to safeguarding the integrity of ancestral heritage and will take all necessary measures to address this concern.
Minister urges nuclear-free commitment
Minister urges nuclear-free commitment Senior Minister Ouch Borith has emphasised the need for nations to intensify efforts towards a common goal of a nuclear-free world.
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