Phnom Penh (FN), Jun. 4 – Lloyd Austin, Secretary of Defence of the United States (US), affirmed the US’s commitment to bolstering and broadening relations and cooperation with Cambodia, particularly in the field of defence.

Cambodian Prime Minister, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet received a courtesy call by Lloyd Austin on Tuesday morning (Jun. 4) at the Peace Palace.

During the meeting, Lloyd Austin thanked Samdech Thipadei for allowing him and his delegation to pay a courtesy call, discuss their work, and express gratitude for the warm welcome extended by the Royal Government of Cambodia. He also noted that this was his second visit to Cambodia, the first being for the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus in 2022.

During this visit, Lloyd Austin aimed to enhance and broaden relations and cooperation with Cambodia across various domains, with a particular focus on defence. He conveyed the US’s readiness to collaborate closely with Cambodia in establishing mechanisms to foster improved relations and cooperation.

The defence secretary also expressed his pleasure in working closely with Cambodia in coordinating the US-ASEAN Defence Dialogue in 2024.

In addition, Lloyd Austin expressed appreciation for the demining skills of the Cambodian Army and conveyed confidence that the US and Cambodia will continue their cooperation in demining. He underlined the importance of consultations and exchanges of views between Cambodia and the US to further strengthen and expand their cooperation.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei warmly welcomed Lloyd Austin and his delegation, expressing gratitude for the strong relations and cooperation between Cambodia and the US. He believed that this visit would open new opportunities to enhance defence cooperation, particularly in combating terrorism, human trafficking, and drug trafficking.

Finally, Samdech Thipadei requested the US Secretary of Defence to resume cooperation in several areas, such as the exchange of military students and joint military exercises. He wished the Secretary of Defence success in his visit to Cambodia and a safe return.

Both sides discussed regional and international security and stability issues, highlighting the importance of building peace, stability, unity, and prosperity in the region and internationally. They acknowledged the mutual benefits of their cooperation.
=FRESH NEWS