(Tokyo): Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet explained that he had been fully focused on reviewing documents during his car ride to the meeting, preparing for important negotiations aimed at advancing Cambodia’s national interests.
Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that he was unaware of the protest at the time, learning about it only after the meeting when his team briefed him on the matter.
The premier spoke on Saturday (May 31) during a meeting with Cambodian community in Japan.
A small group of around 20 to 30 protesters gathered in Tokyo, Japan, to express opposition to the Cambodian government. However, they did not capture the attention of the prime minister, who was en route to a bilateral meeting with the Japanese prime minister.
Samdech Thipadei underscored, “Yesterday, while I was on my way to meet the Japanese Prime Minister, I was busy reviewing documents in the car. After the meeting, someone told me that 20 to 30 people had gathered to protest and shout insults. I didn’t even see them. My priority was to focus on the bilateral talks and find ways to elevate Cambodia–Japan relations. I apologize for not noticing the protest. I was too focused on securing the best outcomes for our country.”
Samdech Thipadei added that the number of supporters far outweighs the critics. He added that this strong public support continues to fuel his determination to work hard for the benefit of Cambodia and its people.
On the occasion, Prime Minister Hun Manet underlined that Cambodia–Japan relations have now reached their highest level in history, having become a comprehensive strategic partnership. This milestone was achieved in 2023 under the leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen and former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
The premier also highlighted Japan’s longstanding friendship and support for Cambodia, dating back to the early stages of the peace process. Over the past 72 years of diplomatic relations, ties between the two countries have steadily strengthened, culminating in this historic peak. Given the depth of this relationship, the prime minister stressed that achieving meaningful results from bilateral cooperation remains his top priority, regardless of protests or opposition.
=FRESH NEWS
