Cambodia, Kazakhstan Seek to Deepen Cooperation in Trade, AI and Food Security

PHNOM PENH, July 20, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and Kazakhstan pledged Monday to deepen cooperation in trade, artificial intelligence (AI), food security and other strategic sectors as Prime Minister Hun Manet met President Kassym‑Jomart Tokayev on the sidelines of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in China.

Tokayev praised Cambodia’s tourism potential and invited Hun Manet to pay an official visit to Kazakhstan at a mutually convenient time. He said Astana was keen to expand ties with Phnom Penh, noting opportunities in agriculture, technology and cultural exchange.

Hun Manet highlighted that 2026 marks the 32nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding establishing a bilateral consultation mechanism between their foreign ministries, alongside an agreement granting visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic and official passports.

The Cambodian premier said the two accords would facilitate official exchanges and create new opportunities to expand cooperation. He stressed that closer collaboration in emerging technologies such as AI would help both countries adapt to global economic shifts and strengthen resilience in food and energy security.

Beyond diplomacy, the leaders agreed to pursue cooperation in trade, agriculture, information technology and energy. They also exchanged views on strengthening ties through multilateral platforms, including the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Officials said the meeting underscored a shared commitment to diversify partnerships and build new bridges between Southeast Asia and Central Asia.