PHNOM PENH: South Korea’s newly appointed ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Kim Chang-yong, reaffirmed Seoul’s commitment on Thursday to strengthening bilateral cooperation across both legislative and executive bodies.
The assurance came during a courtesy call and working discussion between Cambodian National Assembly President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary and South Korean Ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Kim Chang-yong, at the National Assembly Palace on Jan. 22.
Samdech Khuon Sudary welcomed the new envoy, expressing confidence that his diplomatic mission would elevate the bilateral relationship to new heights.
She emphasised that the “Strategic Partnership” between the two nations is rooted in mutual trust, respect, and shared interests.
“Our ancient civilisations underscore the potential for deeper cooperation through cultural exchange, education, and tourism,” she said, while also requesting South Korean assistance in technical and digital training for National Assembly Secretariat officials to enhance legislative efficiency.
The National Assembly President highlighted the Cambodian Royal Government’s “Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1,” which prioritises human resource development as the cornerstone of national reform and governance.
She called for continued South Korean scholarship programmes for Cambodian students.
For his part, Ambassador Kim briefed the Cambodian National Assembly President on various ongoing projects funded through South Korea’s Official Development Assistance (ODA). He specifically commended the Cambodian Royal Government’s recent crackdown on transnational crime and cyber-scams, noting that such measures significantly bolster the confidence of South Korean tourists and investors.
He further confirmed that Seoul stands ready to assist Cambodia in building capacity to combat online fraud and cross-border offences.
Addressing regional humanitarian concerns, Ambassador Kim expressed deep sympathy for Cambodian civilians affected by recent border tensions. He announced that the South Korean government is preparing to provide US$500,000 in aid through UNICEF Cambodia to support displaced families and children whose education and livelihoods have been disrupted.
In closing, Ambassador Kim requested the Cambodian National Assembly’s support for South Korea’s candidate for the upcoming election of the Secretary-General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), a request that the Cambodian side noted favourably.