Phnom Penh (FN), Apr. 9 – Australia remains steadfast in its support for Cambodia's human resource development through scholarship provision and is committed to further enhancing bilateral cooperation for Cambodia's development.

Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Justin Whyatt paid a farewell call on Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on 8 April 2024 at the Peace Palace.

During the farewell meeting, the outgoing Ambassador Justin Whyatt expressed his gratitude to Samdech Thipadei for granting him and his delegation the opportunity to bid farewell and express their appreciation.

The outgoing ambassador commended the strong relations between Australia and Cambodia and thanked the Cambodian Ministries and Institutions for their support and cooperation in strengthening bilateral ties and advancing mutual interests over the years.

The ambassador also briefed Samdech Thipadei on the progress of recent discussions between the prime ministers of both countries in Australia. Additionally, he informed Samdech Thipadei about Australia's continued support for education cooperation, including the provision of additional scholarships to Cambodian students and fostering collaboration between Australian and Cambodian universities.

Justin Whyatt reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to ongoing cooperation across various priority areas, including agriculture, investment, trade, infrastructure, renewable energy, as well as defence and security.

For his part, Prime Minister Hun Manet commended Justin Kevin White's diplomatic tenure and expressed satisfaction with the progress of cooperation discussed with the Australian prime minister in the past.

Samdech Thipadei extended gratitude to Australia for its support across priority areas and cooperation. In terms of investment and trade, Samdech Thipadei underscored efforts to foster connections between the private sectors of both countries, expressing confidence that this would enhance bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of their people.

Regarding infrastructure and green energy, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underlined the Royal Government's initiatives to promote infrastructure development and green energy projects by encouraging private sector involvement in investment and development within these sectors.

Within the framework of the defence and security, the premier reaffirmed Cambodia-Australia's commitment to cooperation in enhancing defence capabilities and security through training and capacity building initiatives.

Both sides also exchanged views on bilateral and multilateral cooperation aimed at contributing to regional and international peace and prosperity.
=FRESH NEWS