Havana: Cambodian Minister of Women's Affairs H.E. Dr. Ing Kantha Phavi met with H.E. Ms. Ana Mara Mari Machado, Vice President of the National Assembly of People's Power and the Council of State of Cuba, in a courtesy meeting at the National Capitol in Havana.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during the meeting, H.E. Ms. Ana Mara Mari Machado discussed the active participation of Cuban women in societal programs, their parliamentary roles, and related topics. She emphasized the significant role women play in Cuba's economic, political, and social spheres, reflecting the Cuban State and Government's political will, the Revolution's work, and the legacy of leaders like Fidel Castro and Vilma Espn in promoting women's rights and gender equality.
H.E. Ms. Mari Machado highlighted that Cuba boasts the world's second-largest female parliamentary representation, with women constituting 55.74 percent of deputies in the National Assembly. This achievement has been recognized internationally by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). She also spoke about the National Programme for the Advancement of Women and the constitutional and legal provisions supporting women's rights in Cuba.
Gratitude was expressed for Cambodia's support against the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade on Cuba and the country's listing as a state sponsor of terrorism. The Cambodian minister acknowledged the accomplishments of Cuban women and conveyed greetings from the President of the Cambodian National Assembly, showing a willingness to enhance exchanges between the legislative bodies of both countries and reaffirming solidarity with Cuba.
The meeting included participation from Cuban parliamentary committee chairs and Cambodian delegation members, including the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Chea Thireak.