Samdech Hun Sen Urges Cambodia, Philippines to Expand Bilateral Trade and Tourism

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept. 8, 2025) — Acting Head of State and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen on Monday called on the governments of Cambodia and the Philippines to strengthen bilateral trade and deepen cooperation across key sectors, including tourism.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen made the remarks during a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. at the Peace Palace, held as part of Marcos’s three-day state visit to Cambodia.

Chea Thyrith, spokesperson for the Senate, said Samdech Techo Hun Sen conveyed warm greetings on behalf of King Norodom Sihamoni and personally welcomed President Marcos, describing the visit as a meaningful step toward enhancing bilateral relations.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen emphasized the need to boost economic exchanges, noting that current trade levels between the two countries remain modest. He urged both governments to explore practical ways to increase trade volume and unlock new areas of cooperation.

He also highlighted the importance of strengthening tourism ties and encouraged more people-to-people exchanges between Cambodians and Filipinos.

President Marcos welcomed Hun Sen’s proposals and affirmed the Philippines’ commitment to expanding trade and tourism cooperation. He noted that Cambodia’s newly inaugurated Techo International Airport could play a key role in boosting regional connectivity and tourism flows.

Marcos expressed gratitude for the warm reception and said the visit had left a lasting impression on him and his delegation. He voiced optimism that bilateral relations would continue to grow, supported by shared interests and regional collaboration.