Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 15 – German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier lauded Cambodia's rapid development and cultural diversity.
German president held official talks with the acting head of state Say Chhum at the Senate on Wednesday morning (Feb 15).
"German president praised the rapid growth of the kingdom and cultural diversity. In particular, Cambodia has implemented the social welfare protection system policy improving socio-economic development policy for sustainable growth over the last two decades," according to the outcomes of the official talks between the two sides.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier briefed his visit to Siem Reap and saw the evidence of civil war in the kingdom.
The visiting president also visited Halo Trust, an NGO works to clear landmines and other explosive devices; and explored Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap.
German president emphasized that his visit aimed to enhance the existing excellent ties and further cooperation.
For his part, Samdech Say Chhum highly appreciated the good relations and cooperation between the two countries. Both countries have improved cooperation in various sectors such as political, economic, trade, health, culture, education, and people-to-people exchange.
Say Chhum also expressed his satisfaction with the increasing of Cambodia-Germany trade volume. Germany becomes the first and largest trading partner with Cambodia among European Union counties. In 2022, the trade volume increased by 4 percent compared to the same period before COVID19 in 2019.
The acting head of state thanked the German government for offering development assistance, financial assistance, concessions, and grants in several priority sectors since 1994. Those sectors include education, social welfare protection, sustainable development, governance, culture, poverty reduction, and demining.
The generous support of the German government has contributed significantly to the kingdom's socio-economic development. At the same time, the two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues.
It should be noted that the president and the first lady and a high-level delegation arrived in Cambodia on Tuesday (Feb. 14) for an official visit from 14-16 February 2023.
=FRESH NEWS
