Cambodian King, Singaporean President Mark 60 Years of Diplomatic Ties

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.16, 2025) — Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni and Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam exchanged congratulatory messages this week to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between their two nations.

“On the momentous occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Republic of Singapore, I have the great pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations and heartfelt felicitations to Your Excellency, the government, and the friendly people of the Republic of Singapore,” King Sihamoni said.

The king noted Cambodia’s formal recognition of Singapore’s independence on Aug. 10, 1965, by the late King-Father Norodom Sihanouk, “Preah Borom Ratanak Kaudh,” as a pivotal moment that signaled a commitment to enduring friendship, mutual respect and solidarity.

Reflecting on six decades of bilateral ties, Sihamoni said the relationship has flourished through “steadfast cooperation, regular exchanges at all levels, and fruitful collaboration across a wide range of sectors.” He described the partnership as a testament to the shared values and aspirations of both countries.

“As we commemorate this significant milestone,” he added, “I reaffirm the Kingdom of Cambodia’s resolute commitment to further strengthening friendly relations with the Republic of Singapore. In a spirit of unity and common purpose, I look forward to deepening collaboration across both traditional and emerging domains for the greater benefit of our peoples and the advancement of peace, stability and prosperity within ASEAN and beyond.”

President Shanmugaratnam, in his message, extended warm wishes to the Cambodian people and praised the longstanding friendship between the two nations, rooted in the close ties between King-Father Sihanouk and Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

“Cambodia’s early recognition of Singapore’s independence laid a strong foundation for a relationship built on trust and mutual respect,” he said.

“Over the decades, our partnership has strengthened through active engagement and cooperation across a broad spectrum of areas. I am confident that these enduring ties will continue to flourish for the benefit of our peoples.”

The leaders’ messages underscored a shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation and promoting peace and prosperity across the region.