Phnom Penh (FN) Aug. 28 – Timorese coordinating minister for Economic Affairs and minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay expressed his confidence that Cambodia will become more prosperous under the wise leadership of Cambodian prime minister Hun Manet.

Timorese minister spoke during a courtesy call on prime minister Hun Manet, held on Monday (Aug. 28) at the Peace Palace.

During the meeting, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay congratulated premier Hun Manet on his recent appointment as Cambodian prime minister, and was proud that he was one of the first international dignitaries to be warmly welcomed by Manet.

Taking this occasion, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay also expressed his deep gratitude for Samdech Hun Sen's efforts to help and support Timor-Leste. In particular, helping Timor-Leste to become an observer country in the 11th ASEAN and persuading other ASEAN members to support Timor-Leste for ASEAN membership. He expressed a strong belief that under the wise leadership of Hun Manet, Cambodia will elevate to another level.

For his part, Manet highlighted the historic diplomatic relations between the two countries, which began in 2002 and achieved remarkable results, especially in 2022 when Cambodia was a rotating chair of ASEAN. Manet also expressed his support for Timor-Leste's candidacy in ASEAN, the World Trade Organization, as well as other regional and international levels.

Manet mentioned Cambodia's nation-building process, which was a difficult journey, and noted that Timor-Leste is not different from what Cambodia has experienced in the past.

Lastly, Manet also conveyed a greeting message to the Timorese prime minister and thanked him for the meaningful congratulatory letter. Manet wished to physically meet the Timorese prime minister in Jakarta at the upcoming ASEAN Summit.

On the occasion, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay also praised the friendship between Timor-Leste and Cambodia, adding that a true friend can be found during the most difficult time. In terms of economic, cultural, and historical aspects, the people and government of Timor-Leste will always cherish this wonderful friendship. On behalf of the people and the government of Timor-Leste, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay invited Manet to pay an official visit to Timor-Leste at any appropriate time.
=FRESH NEWS