Cambodia reaffirms strong ties with Australia at Australia Day celebration

PHNOM PENH, Jan 28, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth has reaffirmed the country’s longstanding relations with Australia, highlighting expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

Vissoth attended the Australia Day 2026 celebration as an honorary guest at the Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh on January 27.

Speaking on behalf of the government, he congratulated Australia and its community in Cambodia, noting ties established in 1952 reflected Canberra’s consistent support for Cambodia’s sovereignty and nation-building.

“Bilateral cooperation across agriculture, health, and people-to-people exchanges has delivered substantial benefits to both countries,” he said.

He cited Australia as a key trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching about USD 600 million in 2025, and expressed confidence in further growth.

He also acknowledged Australia’s role as a major development partner, providing around USD 1.4 billion in aid since the 1990s, focused on human capital development, and praised recent humanitarian support for displaced populations.

Vissoth commended Ambassador Derek Yip and embassy staff for their contributions to strengthening bilateral ties and supporting Cambodia’s socio-economic development.