Cambodia, Russia Mark 70 Years of Diplomatic Relations

PHNOM PENH, May 15, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and Russia are marking 70 years of diplomatic relations, highlighting decades of political cooperation, educational exchanges and economic ties.

Formal ties between Cambodia and the former Soviet Union were established on May 13, 1956, during a period of major geopolitical change.

One of the earliest milestones was the visit by late King-Father Norodom Sihanouk to Moscow in July that year.

In a statement commemorating the anniversary, Cambodia described the relationship as one built on “mutual respect, trust and a shared commitment to peace, stability and prosperity.”

It also acknowledged Soviet support after the fall of the Khmer Rouge regime in 1979, particularly in education and technical assistance.

More than 8,000 Cambodian students have studied in the Soviet Union and Russia over the decades, many later taking leadership roles in public and private sectors.

Recent years have seen continued high-level exchanges, including visits by former Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev to Phnom Penh in 2015 and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen to Moscow and Sochi in 2016.

The two countries have expanded cooperation in trade, tourism and culture, with Cambodian officials reporting more than 66,000 Russian tourists last year.

In April 2025, they co-chaired the 11th session of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation.

Cambodia and Russia also engage through regional platforms such as the ASEAN-Russia Dialogue Partnership, with Cambodia serving as coordinator from 2021 to 2024.

Officials said future cooperation could include digital innovation, climate resilience and sustainable development.

The anniversary comes as both sides reaffirm their intention to strengthen bilateral ties and expand collaboration in the years ahead.