Laos, Cambodia agree to strengthen cooperation

The governments of Laos and Cambodia are set to strengthen cooperation in politics, defence, economy, trade, energy, education, and border affairs following the official visit of Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (centre left) and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet (centre right) present themselves to King Norodom Sihamoni at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh on December 4.

The plan was mentioned during the official visit of PM Sonexay’s high-level delegation to Cambodia from December 4-5 at the invitation of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. The visit aimed to enhance the historic friendship and deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.
An official welcoming ceremony was held at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, where PM Sonexay, his spouse, and his delegation paid a courtesy call to King Norodom Sihamoni.
During an official meeting, the two PMs and their teams had bilateral talks on cooperation in socio-economic progress and reviewed bilateral work across various sectors. Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of the longstanding friendship and solidarity between Laos and Cambodia, emphasising their shared commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership.
The two sides agreed to exchange visits at all levels to effectively implement signed agreements and strengthen existing mechanisms such as the Joint Committee on Bilateral Cooperation and the Joint Border Committee.
Laos and Cambodia are now expected to work more closely to enhance border security, ensure peaceful border relations, and promote trade, investment, and tourism, focusing on sectors such as electricity and agriculture.
The leaders witnessed the signing of three significant deals between the two sides, including agreements on the avoidance of double taxation and prevention of tax evasion, and two Memorandums of Understanding on cultural and arts cooperation, as well as agricultural cooperation.
The delegation also visited the Phnom Penh special economic zone to explore opportunities for more collaboration.
On future commitments, the two countries pledged to support each other at regional and international forums, including ASEAN and the UN. Preparations for the Cambodian PM’s state visit to Laos in 2025 were also discussed. PM Sonexay expressed gratitude for Cambodia’s support during Laos’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2024, reaffirming Laos’ commitment to fostering the bilateral relationship for mutual benefit.
King Norodom Sihamoni expressed hopes for strengthened ties and continued growth in Lao-Cambodian relations, placing importance on cooperation for the prosperity of both nations.
This visit is seen as a significant step in reinforcing the partnership between Laos and Cambodia, hoping to set a foundation for future collaboration.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update December 6, 2024)