Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 20 – So Naro, Minister Delegate attached to the Prime Minister, stated that ASEAN and Japan have been partners since 2013, and the collaboration has been fruitful, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday (Dec. 19) at the Phnom Penh International Airport.

On the occasion of attending the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed the hope that Japan will continue providing both short-term and long-term scholarships, along with additional research opportunities for Cambodia, So Naro added.

So Naro quoted Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet that 2023 holds special significance for the Cambodian people because ASEAN and Japan have established a strategic partnership at all levels within ASEAN and the year 2023 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Cambodia and Japan, which has been elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Minister Delegate So Naro underlined that, "Samdech Thipadei is pleased to witness the successful outcomes of the heart-to-heart partnerships over the past decade, particularly since the launch of the Japan-ASEAN partnership strategy in 2013."

So Naro added that the growing unpredictability in regional and global frameworks underscores the importance of cooperation with reliable and amicable partners to foster people-to-people connections, trust, and understanding the solidarity between ASEAN and Japan.

At the same time, So Naro underlined that the collaboration between Japan and ASEAN has contributed to narrowing the technological and digital gap while promoting joint development and human resource development. He conveyed Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet's hope for Japan to continue providing scholarships, training courses, and vocational training to Cambodia.

The minister delegate underscored that Samdech Thipadei also welcomed and supported the announcement of the launch of a 40 billion JPY for people-to-people exchanges and cultural-educational cooperation.

So Naro also mentioned that Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet expressed appreciation for the ongoing cooperation between Japan and Cambodia in various fields including education, technology, medicine, social protection, and cultural exchange visits.
=FRESH NEWS