Australia Reaffirms Commitment to Cambodia's Development During Ministerial Visit

PHNOM PENH, August 3, 2026 – Australia has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to supporting Cambodia's socio-economic development during a high-level meeting between Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn and visiting Australian Minister for International Development Dr. Anne Aly.

The courtesy call took place on July 30 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as part of Dr. Aly's three-day official visit to the Kingdom from July 29 to 31.

During the talks, both sides reflected on the warm and productive bilateral relations that have flourished over the years, marked by regular high-level exchanges and robust people-to-people ties. They also highlighted the Senior Officials' Consultations as a vital platform for advancing cooperation across multiple sectors.

On the economic front, the two ministers acknowledged the upward trend in bilateral trade over the past four years and agreed that significant untapped potential remains. Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn extended an open invitation to Australian investors to explore opportunities in Cambodia's key growth sectors, including education, agriculture, industry, renewable energy, mining, and healthcare.

Expressing deep appreciation for Australia's enduring partnership, the Deputy Prime Minister recalled Australia's invaluable contributions to Cambodia's peace-building and post-conflict reconstruction, particularly through peacekeeping operations and development assistance in agriculture, health, education, and demining. He also conveyed gratitude for Australia's recent pledge of an additional 3 million Australian dollars to bolster Cambodia's social protection system amid global economic pressures stemming from the Middle East crisis.

Minister Aly responded by affirming Australia's pride in its role as a development partner and reiterated Canberra's determination to continue supporting Cambodia's progress in the years ahead.

The discussion also touched on regional and global issues of shared interest, with both sides pledging mutual support on core concerns and vowing to collaborate closely in international forums to uphold peace, stability, and shared prosperity.

Looking forward, both countries are gearing up to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027, with plans to organize commemorative events to celebrate this historic milestone.

Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn provided Minister Aly with an update on the ongoing border situation between Cambodia and Thailand, noting that detailed briefings have already been shared with the Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh.

— Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

https://t.me/MFAICNews/16936

Reported by The Khmer Today