Cambodia, Philippines Vow Deeper Ties in ASEAN Spirit

Cambodia and the Philippines have pledged to strengthen their bilateral relationship through enhanced cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, following a warm state banquet held in Phnom Penh on Monday evening. The event marked the conclusion of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s three-day state visit to Cambodia, accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.

Hun Sen, Acting Head of State, welcomed the Philippine delegation at the Peace Palace, describing the visit as a reflection of enduring friendship and mutual respect. “This dinner is not only a state reception, but also an opportunity for the leaders of our two countries to meet and discuss bilateral cooperation in the political, economic, trade, and cultural fields,” he said.

The two leaders held candid discussions on shared priorities, including economic complementarity, regional stability, and cultural exchange. Hun Sen praised the Philippines’ socio-economic progress and reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to deepening ties across all sectors.

A key highlight of the evening was Cambodia’s endorsement of the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN chairmanship in 2026. Both sides expressed their intent to work collaboratively toward building a resilient, inclusive, and people-centred ASEAN community.

President Marcos Jr. echoed the sentiment, thanking Cambodia for its hospitality and pledging continued cooperation. “The cordial and fruitful meeting between our two delegations is a testament to our shared commitment to work with like-minded partners for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of regional solidarity in facing transboundary challenges, promoting intra-ASEAN trade, and upholding ASEAN centrality. The leaders agreed that their nations’ friendship—rooted in trust and shared aspirations—would continue to flourish in the years ahead.

The banquet concluded on a high note, reinforcing the diplomatic warmth between Cambodia and the Philippines and setting the stage for deeper collaboration in the region.

-2025-09-09