Cambodia Marks Europe Day, Reaffirms EU as Key Partner

PHNOM PENH, May 13, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has marked the 76th anniversary of Europe Day by reaffirming the European Union’s role as one of its key development and trading partners, while underscoring the importance of regional cooperation, peace and sustainable growth, officials said Wednesday.

Speaking at the celebration, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, recalled the significance of the 1950 Schuman Declaration as the foundation of peace and prosperity in Europe and a model for regional cooperation worldwide.

EU Ambassador Igor Driesmans attended alongside Cambodian officials, ambassadors from EU member states and international guests. Chanthol said the EU remains a vital partner in trade and development, citing collaboration under the Global Gateway initiative and assistance programs supporting Cambodia’s digital transformation, green growth and institutional capacity.

Officials noted that Cambodia–EU trade exceeded $5.8 billion in 2025, making the EU Cambodia’s fourth‑largest trading partner. Cambodian exports, led by garments, footwear and rice, continue to benefit from duty‑free access under the Everything But Arms scheme, while EU imports include machinery and industrial inputs.

Observed annually on May 9, Europe Day commemorates the Schuman Declaration, which laid the groundwork for post‑war cooperation in Europe. Chanthol expressed confidence that Cambodia–EU relations will continue to deepen, contributing to shared prosperity, regional peace and sustainable global development.