(Dili): Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen met with Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, on Thursday (May 8) during his official visit to Timor-Leste.

Timorese Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão warmly welcomed Samdech Techo and expressed his honor in receiving the Cambodian delegation on this historic visit.

The prime minister extended his gratitude to Cambodia for its support in Timor-Leste’s admission as an ASEAN observer in 2022, during Cambodia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, and for its continued backing of Timor-Leste’s bid for full ASEAN membership.

In response, Samdech Techo thanked Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão for his warm hospitality, emphasising that this gesture reflected the strong bonds of friendship between the two nations.

Samdech Techo expressed satisfaction with the state of Cambodia–Timor-Leste relations, noting that while trade and economic ties remain limited, the political relationship is robust, especially in the context of international diplomacy. He described the relationship as one of genuine and enduring friendship.

Samdech Techo underlined the complementary strengths of both countries, highlighting Timor-Leste’s energy security and Cambodia’s food security. Samdech Techo proposed that the two nations expand cooperation in a way that leverages these strengths. He suggested that Timor-Leste consider establishing a food supply center with imports from Cambodia to enhance its food security.

Samdech Techo also expressed hope that the two governments, particularly the prime ministers, would meet again at the upcoming ASEAN Summit. In addition, he highlighted the potential to deepen collaboration in education and tourism, and pledged to propose an increase in Cambodian scholarships for Timorese students.

Prime Minister Gusmão welcomed Samdech Techo’s proposals and affirmed that both sides would continue discussions on these matters.

On this occasion, the prime minister once again thanked Cambodia and in particular, Samdech Techo, for past support. He underscored the importance of achieving full ASEAN membership for Timor-Leste, especially amid global uncertainties.

He expressed hope that Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN would come to fruition soon, with continued support from Samdech Techo, who had backed the country’s efforts since his tenure as Prime Minister of Cambodia.

In response, Samdech Techo reaffirmed his firm belief that ASEAN member states would support Timor-Leste’s accession, stating that the current conditions were favorable for its full membership. Cambodia, he said, would continue to fully support Timor-Leste’s bid.

The meeting concluded with both leaders exchanging views on global political developments, trade tensions, and regional issues, particularly the situation in Myanmar.

Prime Minister Gusmão wished Samdech Techo a successful official visit and a pleasant stay in Timor-Leste.
=FRESH NEWS