September 21, 2023
PHNOM PENH – Thailand’s newly elected Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is scheduled to visit Cambodia later this month in a move aimed at bolstering bilateral relations, according to senior officials from both nations.
The upcoming visit was announced during a recent meeting in Thailand between Soeung Rathchavy, secretary of state at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and her Thai counterpart Saran Jarorn Sovann.
A ministry press release issued on September 17 stated that both parties had a constructive dialogue on strengthening ties for the mutual benefit of their people.
“The focus of the discussion was to prepare for Thavisin’s official visit to Cambodia at the end of September,” it said.
Both sides also explored a range of issues including political-security, economy, trade, investment, education, tourism, labour, demining and technical coordination.
Yang Peou, secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said Thavisin’s visit would have a positive impact on the relationship between the neighbouring ASEAN members.
“Good relations are essential for development and national security,” he said, while calling on both governments to enhance partnership to tackle cross-border crime, trade and border security issues.
On the political front, both countries recently welcomed new prime ministers in a unique coincidence. Thavisin was elected shortly after Prime Minister Hun Manet took office on August 22.
Government spokesman Pen Bona said the visit confirms Thailand’s commitment to continuing collaboration across all sectors, echoing the policies of its predecessor.
“Manet has always emphasised the need for maintaining existing ties while striving to improve relations,” he said, adding that it is important for both countries to focus on fostering a peaceful, friendly and cooperative border.