Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 27 – In a gesture of enduring friendship and cultural connection, the Russian Embassy in Cambodia hosted a special gathering of alumni who had studied in the former Soviet Union and Russia. The event, held on 25 December 2024, celebrated the historical ties between Cambodia and Russia, fostering camaraderie among those who once called Russia their second home.
Attendees included Cambodian professionals from various sectors who pursued higher education in Russian universities, as well as embassy officials and other dignitaries. The gathering provided a platform for alumni to reconnect, share memories, and discuss the impact of their education on their professional and personal lives.
In his welcoming remarks, Russian Ambassador to Cambodia Anatoly Borovik expressed gratitude for the long-standing ties between the two nations.
“As we approach this festive season, it’s time to reflect on the milestones of 2024—a pivotal year for the development of relations between Russia and Cambodia. This year has been marked by productive bilateral meetings, cultural exchanges, and collaborative educational initiatives, all of which underscore our shared commitment to strengthening friendship and partnership. Together, we’ve supported one another across diverse fields, exchanging expertise and celebrating achievements in science and culture,” the ambassador said.
He also highlighted the role of education as a bridge connecting the two nations, enabling mutual understanding and collaboration. “Over the past decades, more than 8,000 Cambodian citizens have earned degrees from leading universities in the former USSR and Russia,” he noted.
According to the ambassador, among these graduates are several prominent Cambodian leaders, including the Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth; the Minister of Education, Youth and Sport Hang Chuon Naron; Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers Vongsey Vissoth; Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona; and Minister of Post and Telecommunications Chea Vandeth, among others.
On the occasion, Ambassador Borovik expressed pride in Russia’s educational institutions, which continue to offer high-quality education across diverse fields of study. He also acknowledged the growing interest among Cambodian youth in pursuing education in Russia.
As part of the program, the embassy announced future initiatives to enhance academic and cultural exchange between the two nations, including scholarship opportunities for Cambodian students to study in Russia.
Professor Gnel Rattha, President of the Association of Former Cambodian Students from the former Soviet Union and Russia, underscored the historical importance of the friendly meeting for modern Russian-Cambodian ties.
He noted that both new and veteran members share a vision of the Association as a key contributor to humanitarian efforts, development, and the exchange of knowledge, skills, and culture between the two nations. Despite being just five years old, the Association has proven its maturity through active support for members and impactful humanitarian initiatives.
=FRESH NEWS
