Seoul: Cambodia’s Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, H.E. Khuon Phon Rattanak, held a courtesy call and working discussions with Korean National Assembly Member H.E. Hong Keewon at the National Assembly building in Seoul on Friday.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Ambassador Rattanak, accompanied by embassy officials, opened the meeting by commending lawmaker Hong for his two fact-finding visits to Cambodia. The Ambassador specifically praised Mr. Hong’s subsequent efforts to provide an “accurate and fair account” of the country’s situation through statements delivered in the National Assembly and interviews with Korean media outlets.
Crucially, the Cambodian envoy urged H.E. Hong to advocate for the easing of travel restrictions to Cambodia, stressing that the current measures have “adversely affected the livelihoods and daily lives of people in both countries.”
In a candid exchange, H.E. Hong conveyed his condolences over the recent death of a Korean youth in Cambodia, acknowledging that the incidents had deeply impacted public sentiment in both nations and affected the lives of both expatriate Koreans and Cambodians residing in South Korea.
He emphasised the need for the Korean government and public to consider the facts surrounding the causes of the death and the broader reality on the ground in Cambodia. He asserted that Cambodia remains safe for general tourists and highlighted the Royal Government of Cambodia’s willingness to cooperate on related concerns.
Aligning with the Ambassador’s request, H.E. Hong Keewon agreed to propose that the Korean government consider relaxing its current travel advisories to Cambodia. He pledged to raise the issue during a National Assembly session scheduled for later today, Nov. 28.
Finally, Lawmaker Hong expressed gratitude for the support and engagement he has received from the Cambodian public via his official social media platforms.