Phnom Penh (FN), Jul. 15 – Yamaguchi Natsuo, Chief Representative of Japan’s Komeito Party and a member of the House of Councillors in the National Diet of Japan, commended the development and progress in all sectors in Cambodia.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet received a courtesy call by Yamaguchi Natsuo on Monday morning (Jul. 15) at the Peace Palace.

During the meeting, Yamaguchi Natsuo expressed his belief that under the wise leadership of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Cambodia will experience much stronger development. He also praised the progress and importance of government-to-government relations, as well as the legislative relations between Japan and Cambodia.

Additionally, Yamaguchi Natsuo noted that Cambodia is a country of complete peace and development in all areas, which will encourage Japanese investors to continue seeking investment opportunities in the kingdom. He hoped that the Royal Government will continue to assist and ensure a favourable environment for Japanese investment in Cambodia.

Yamaguchi Natsuo briefed Samdech Thipadei on his commitment to promoting cooperation on climate change, cybersecurity, and particularly in the field of demining. Japan has close cooperation with the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), one of the most skilled and experienced demining forces.

For his part, Samdech Thipadei welcomed Yamaguchi Natsuo and his delegation to Cambodia and thanked the Government and people of Japan for their continued support of Cambodia's socioeconomic development from the peace-seeking process to the present.

Samdech Thipadei also praised the relationship between Cambodia and Japan, which is at an all-time high in the history of relations between the two countries, following the elevation of their relations to a "comprehensive strategic partnership” in 2023. The premier highlighted Japan's new approach to strengthening and expanding cooperation with Cambodia, focusing on (1) building social infrastructure, (2) sea connectivity, and (3) demining.

The premier also mentioned that the Royal Government continues to prioritise demining and unexploded ordnance. Explosive remnants of war cover more than 3,000 square kilometres, and Cambodia aims to clear more than 1,700 square kilometres to reduce the risk of accidents caused by unexploded ordnance and contribute to improving citizens’ livelihoods.

In this regard, the premier encouraged the Japanese side to continue strengthening and broadening cooperation in the field of demining.

Regarding Japanese investment in Cambodia, Premier Hun Manet highlighted the introduction of policies to ensure a favourable business environment and the competitiveness of the Royal Government through the implementation of investment laws and the establishment of flexible mechanisms to support, encourage, and respond to the needs of investors and the private sector in Cambodia.

At the same time, the Royal Government has launched initiatives to ensure the success of investors, including Japanese investors in Cambodia. The Royal Government has also set up a regular consultation mechanism between the Council for the Development of Cambodia and Japanese investors twice a year to discuss challenges and find solutions.

Samdech Thipadei wished Yamaguchi Natsuo and his delegation success in their visit to Cambodia and a safe repatriation.
=FRESH NEWS