Phnom Penh:Cambodian National Assembly President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary has expressed full support for the 47th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) General Assembly, which will be hosted by the Philippines. She emphasized the importance of parliamentary diplomacy amid global geopolitical uncertainties.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, President Sudary conveyed these sentiments during a meeting at the National Assembly palace with H.E. Senen T. Mangalile, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Cambodia.
During the meeting, President Sudary welcomed Ambassador Mangalile to his new diplomatic role and highlighted the ongoing expansion of bilateral ties since 1957. She expressed optimism about future cooperation in trade, investment, defense, agriculture, and tourism. President Sudary also praised the theme of the upcoming AIPA General Assembly, 'Parliaments Securing a Peaceful, Prosperous, and People-centred ASEAN,' and affirmed her commitment to leading a high-level Cambodian delegation to the conference.
Furthermore, President Sudary called on Manila to increase investment in Cambodia, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises, which contribute significantly to the Cambodian economy. She also advocated for enhanced tourism and continued English-language training support for Cambodian parliamentary staff.
In response, Ambassador Mangalile reiterated Manila's dedication to strengthening bilateral relations, announcing plans for joint business forums in anticipation of the 75th anniversary of Cambodia-Philippines diplomatic ties next year. He expressed gratitude for Cambodia's protection of Filipino workers and confirmed ongoing support for English training programs.
President Sudary thanked the Philippines for its contributions to human capital development under Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet's Pentagonal Strategy-Phase 1. She also acknowledged Manila's past support within ASEAN for the ASEAN Observer Team mission related to the Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire and peace efforts, reaffirming Cambodia's commitment to international law and peace.