(Phnom Penh): Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of Cambodia, engaged in a courtesy farewell meeting with Ülkü Kocaefe, the outgoing Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Cambodia, at the Senate’s Solidarity Palace in Phnom Penh on Wednesday (Apr. 8).

During the meeting, Senate Spokesperson Chea Thyrith reported that Samdech Techo expressed his sincere appreciation for the opportunity to meet with the ambassador once more and recognised her contributions throughout her tenure.

He acknowledged her significant efforts in strengthening bilateral relations between Cambodia and Türkiye, which have evolved into a robust, steadily growing partnership.

Ambassador Kocaefe conveyed her gratitude for the opportunity to meet with Samdech Techo and provided an overview of her accomplishments during her time in office.

She highlighted pivotal achievements, including the establishment of a Turkish office in Cambodia and the successful launch of direct Turkish flights to Cambodia at the close of 2025.

She also emphasised that this air connection represents a significant advancement in bilateral relations, particularly in trade and people-to-people connectivity.

Beyond her diplomatic duties, the ambassador conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for the Cambodian people, noting their warmth and hospitality as qualities she will hold dear. She pledged to be a lifelong friend to Cambodia, emphasising her lasting love for the country.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed his appreciation of the ambassador's thoughtful remarks. He praised her efforts to strengthen bilateral ties. A direct flight from Türkiye has greatly facilitated cooperation between Türkiye and its neighbouring countries, as well as its initiatives to establish trade and cultural offices.

Further, he extended gratitude to Türkiye for its humanitarian assistance extended to Cambodian refugees amid the situation along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

He took this chance to shed light on the multifaceted aspects of the border dispute, restating Cambodia's resolve to uphold a permanent ceasefire and resolve conflicts peacefully through diplomatic engagement.

In conclusion, Samdech Techo Hun Sen reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Cambodia and Türkiye, recalling the Ambassador's heartfelt commitment to remain a steadfast friend to Cambodia.
=FRESH NEWS