Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 10 – On 7 February 2024, Embassy of Russia in Cambodia organised a friendly football match with Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on the occasion of the Diplomats’ Day of the Russian Federation.

Held at the Russian Embassy, the event was graced by Russian Ambassador to Cambodia, Anatoly Borovik, who highlighted the significance of the match in his welcome remarks.

“Today, the teams of the Russian Embassy in Cambodia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia will compete for victory. I would like to emphasize that this is not our first match in this format—such games have become a tradition,” he stated. “This football match holds great importance as it symbolizes the strong ties between Moscow and Phnom Penh.”

The ambassador further drew parallels between football and diplomacy, stating, “Both are arts of interaction and teamwork. Today’s match offers another opportunity to strengthen personal relationships, foster new friendships, and remind us that behind every official meeting or diplomatic document lies genuine human connection. Regardless of the final score, we all win—because cooperation, mutual understanding, and friendship are our true victories.”

On this occasion, Khuon Phon Rattanak, Secretary of State of the Cambodian Foreign Ministry, extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Russian diplomatic community in Cambodia and beyond.

He also reiterated his most sincere gratitude for Russia's invaluable assistance and support to Cambodia during that difficult period. Today's joint activity is a strong testament of the enduring and solid friendship between Cambodia and Russia, which has withstood the test of time and the substances that flowed therein.

Diplomats’ Day of the Russian Federation is celebrated annually on 10 February to honor the country’s diplomatic service and its contributions to international relations. This year’s friendly football match in Phnom Penh exemplifies the spirit of Diplomats’ Day, reinforcing the bonds between Russia and Cambodia through sportsmanship and mutual respect.