Japan Reaffirms Long‑Term Partnership with Cambodia in Clean Water, Industry and Innovation

PHNOM PENH, July 15, 2026 (KPT) – Japan has reaffirmed its long‑term commitment to supporting Cambodia’s development in clean water, industry, science, technology and innovation, as outgoing Japanese Ambassador Ueno Atsushi paid a farewell visit to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), officials said Tuesday.

Ambassador Ueno met Minister Hem Vanndy, with both sides pledging to deepen cooperation in clean water, industrial growth, science, technology and innovation. Vanndy hailed Ueno’s tenure as exceptional, saying his personal dedication had strengthened bilateral ties beyond his official mandate.

“The ministry and the Royal Government have greatly benefited from Your Excellency’s commitment and from our cooperation with our Japanese partners,” Vanndy said. He thanked Japan for long‑standing support in clean water development through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the City of Kitakyushu and other partners, citing infrastructure, technical training and long‑term planning.

“Japan has played a key role in developing Cambodia’s clean water sector. This cooperation has not only improved public health and people’s quality of life, but has also contributed to Cambodia’s economic transformation,” Vanndy added.

Ueno highlighted achievements in Phnom Penh, Svay Rieng and Ta Khmau, recalling the “Phnom Penh Miracle” and inaugurations of new plants as examples of joint success. The two sides also discussed expanding cooperation in intellectual property, industrial development, investment and technology transfer, while reaffirming support for Japanese companies operating in Cambodia.

Ueno, ambassador since 2023, has been appointed Japan’s next envoy to Indonesia, concluding his mission in the Kingdom.