Cambodia’s Foreign Minister Meets Cambodian Community in New Zealand During Historic Visit

PHNOM PENH, March 14, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn met members of the Cambodian community in New Zealand during what he described as a historic official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

Speaking to around 200 Cambodians in Auckland on Friday evening, Prak Sokhonn conveyed greetings from King Norodom Sihamoni, Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet.

He stressed that Cambodia’s leadership attaches strong importance to the welfare of citizens both at home and abroad.

The gathering brought together Cambodians from Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Hawke’s Bay. Prak Sokhonn noted he was the first Cambodian foreign minister to pay an official visit to New Zealand since 2019, calling the trip a significant milestone in relations.

He highlighted the close partnership between the two countries in trade, education, agriculture and economic cooperation, and pointed to the growing number of Cambodian students in New Zealand, many supported by scholarships such as the Manaaki programme.

On regional issues, Prak Sokhonn reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, saying the government would continue to protect national interests through diplomatic, legal, political and military means in line with international law.