PHNOM PENH: On June 9, 2025, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet met with H.E. António Costa, President of the European Council (EC), during the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France. The discussion highlighted the European Union’s strong interest in expanding its relationship and cooperation with Cambodia.
President Costa commended the robust ties between the EU and ASEAN, noting the EU’s ongoing collaboration with all ASEAN member states, including Cambodia. He praised Cambodia’s progress in developing its legal framework, specifically the recent advancements in its Fisheries Law, and expressed a keen interest in deepening relations and cooperation. He also acknowledged Cambodia’s broader development achievements.
Prime Minister Hun Manet conveyed his gratitude for the EU’s contributions to Cambodia’s socio-economic development through various joint projects. He expressed hope for the EU to remain a vital partner, especially as Cambodia aims to graduate from its Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2029.
Addressing the challenges in the fisheries sector, the Prime Minister detailed Cambodia’s concrete measures, including the promotion of the Fisheries Law, which has passed the National Assembly and is currently under review by the Senate. He also underscored Cambodia’s commitment to sustainable development, aiming for 70 percent renewable energy by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050, despite its low carbon emissions.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet affirmed Cambodia’s dedication to liberalisation and multilateralism amidst global uncertainties. He emphasized that military force is not a policy priority for Cambodia, given the country’s historical experience with civil war and its understanding of the lasting devastation from landmines and unexploded ordnance.
The Prime Minister accepted President Costa’s invitation to visit the EU headquarters in Brussels at a mutually convenient time to explore further opportunities for strengthening and expanding Cambodia-EU relations and cooperation.