Cambodia, Singapore Mark 60 Years of Diplomatic Relations

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.15, 2025) — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Monday exchanged congratulations to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between their two countries, highlighting decades of friendship and cooperation.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet​​ (L) with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during his official visit in Cambodia. Photo/KPT.

In a formal message to Wong, Hun Manet said Cambodia was pleased to celebrate the milestone, noting that official ties began with Cambodia’s recognition of Singapore’s independence on Aug. 10, 1965, by the late King-Father Norodom Sihanouk.

“This significant act marked more than the beginning of official ties—it reflected a profound commitment to friendship and partnership between our two nations,” Hun Manet said. “It laid an enduring foundation for mutual trust, political support, and a shared vision of peace, stability and prosperity in Southeast Asia.”

The prime minister said Cambodia and Singapore have built a strong, multifaceted partnership over the past six decades, with cooperation across sectors including trade, investment, defense, education, tourism and digital innovation.

He noted that in 2024, Singapore was Cambodia’s third-largest trading partner and top investor among ASEAN member states, contributing significantly to the country’s socio-economic development.

“This milestone anniversary offers a valuable opportunity to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to deepening cooperation and expanding collaboration across existing and emerging fields,” Hun Manet said. “In doing so, we will continue to enhance the well-being of our peoples and contribute meaningfully to peace, stability, sustainable development and prosperity within the ASEAN Community and beyond.”

Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong responded with warm congratulations, emphasizing the depth of the bilateral relationship.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet​​ (L) with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during his official visit in Singapore. Photo/Supplied.

“Cambodia was one of the first countries to recognize Singapore’s independence in 1965,” Wong said. “Six decades on, our ties have grown steadily, expanding from traditional areas of trade and capacity building into new frontiers such as digital transformation and food security.”

Wong said he was confident the partnership would continue to flourish and deliver tangible benefits to both nations.

“I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our cooperation, both bilaterally and within ASEAN,” he said.