Phnom Penh (FN), Nov 13 – Japanese prime minister Kishida Fumio announced to upgrade bilateral relations to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership", based on the significant development of bilateral cooperation, in the next year.

Japanese premier spoke at the Cambodia-Japan joint press conference, held on 12 November 2022 in Phnom Penh.

Cambodia-Japan planned to upgrade bilateral relations to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" marks 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Cambodia.

Taking this opportunity, Japan will move cooperation with Cambodia further forward.

"Our cooperation extends beyond our bilateral relations. In today's meeting, Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen and I again discussed regional and international affairs. Our countries shared the position that unilateral change of the status quo by force is unacceptable and communicated this position together," Kishida underscored.

"In particular, we must continue to appeal together for the resolute determination that Russia's threat to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine is unacceptable, let alone that the use of such weapons must never be tolerated," he continued.

In addition, making use of technologies that Japan has for many years provided cooperation on, the Cambodia Mine Action Center (CMAC), together with JICA, will conduct training for Ukraine on the use of landmine detectors, sending a powerful message to the international community.

"Next year, Japan and Cambodia will celebrate the 70th anniversary since the establishment of our diplomatic relations. Under our "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," I hope our bilateral cooperation will expand into a wider range of fields and look forward to active exchanges between the peoples of both countries," Japanese premier added.
=FRESH NEWS