Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 8 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet requested Japan to examine the possibility of establishing a Cambodia-Japan Industrial Park and developing logistics master plan for Sihanoukville Autonomous Port to enhance regional connectivity.
The premier’s request was made during the working discussion with Japanese Ambassador to Cambodia Ueno Atsushi on 7 December 2023 at the Peace Palace.
On the occasion, the Japanese ambassador thanked Samdech Thipadei for taking the time to allow him and his colleagues to pay a courtesy call and also informed that Japan is committed to further strengthening and expanding support to Cambodia on cooperation in a number of areas, including investment, connectivity, technology, education and vocational training, security and defense, etc.
In the field of defense, Ambassador Ueno Atsushi conveyed his satisfaction with the recent hosting of the inaugural meeting of the Cambodia-Japan Army Working Group by the Japanese Army Self-Defense Force. Furthermore, he disclosed Japan's proposal for a joint bilateral exercise involving the Cambodian and Japanese navies to foster stronger ties. Ueno Atsushi reiterated Japan's commitment to supporting the ongoing efforts in maintaining peace, security, and prosperity, both regionally and globally.
In response, Samdech Thipadei warmly welcomed Ambassador Ueno Atsushi and his delegation to discuss further strengthening and expanding cooperation in several key areas between Cambodia and Japan. He also expressed support for promoting economic cooperation between both countries and encouraged Japan to facilitate more small and medium investments in Cambodia.
At the same time, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also requested an examination of the feasibility of establishing a Cambodia-Japan Industrial Park and sought assistance for Cambodia in logistics master plan development to transform the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port into a crucial gateway in the region.
In the realm of security and defense, Samdech Thipadei affirmed his endorsement of enhancing cooperation through tangible initiatives. He personally organised the establishment of working group mechanisms involving the armies of both nations, aimed at connecting the territories of Cambodia and Japan. Notably, he highlighted upcoming activities, such as the visit of the Japanese Navy Self-Defense Forces to Cambodia in 2024, the organization of joint naval exercises at Japan's request, and collaborative demining initiatives.
=FRESH NEWS
