Cambodia and Singapore set sights on deeper cooperation as envoy departs

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 4 (KPT) – Cambodia and Singapore have pledged to build on recent progress and pursue deeper cooperation across defence, trade and cultural ties as Singapore’s ambassador concluded her diplomatic mission in Phnom Penh.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn received Ambassador Teo Lay Cheng on March 2 for a farewell meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Officials said both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing practical cooperation in sectors including labour, human resource development and people-to-people exchanges, with an emphasis on delivering tangible benefits to citizens.

Prak Sokhonn noted that bilateral relations had strengthened significantly during Teo’s tenure, citing high-level visits by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet to Singapore in 2024 and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s trip to Cambodia in 2025 to mark 60 years of diplomatic ties.

Ambassador Teo expressed gratitude for the support she received and praised Cambodia’s recent achievements, including its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2022 and the successful hosting of the Southeast Asian Games and ASEAN Para Games in 2023.

She also highlighted embassy-led activities marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Looking ahead, Sokhonn assured Cambodia’s continued support for the incoming Singaporean ambassador and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to maintaining and deepening cooperation.

The meeting underscored both nations’ intention to translate diplomatic goodwill into concrete initiatives across strategic sectors.