Phnom Penh, 24 November 2021 (TDI): The newly appointed French Ambassador to Cambodia, Jacques Pellet paid a courtesy call to the Prime Minister of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen at the Peace Palace, today.

13th Asia-Europe Meeting

During his visit with the Cambodian Premier, he also informed about the President of France, Emmanuel Macron’s participation in the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM). The Summit is hosted by Cambodia on 25 and 26 November.

Cambodia and France Cooperation

Cambodia and France cooperate in a multitude of fields. Future collaboration between the two will ultimately increase cooperation between ASEAN and Europe, as presently Cambodia holds the ASEAN chairmanship.

Furthermore, France will take over the presidency of the Council of the European Union, next year. The two will interact more closely to strengthen ties and achieve common goals for mutual benefit.

Additionally, the French Ambassador lauded Cambodia’s efforts with reference to the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. He expressed that approximately 400 French companies operating in Cambodia welcomed the successful vaccination campaign. This is so because the campaign has reopened the country in terms of resumption of flights as well as trade and economic activities.

Whereas, the Cambodian Prime Minister on his part, appreciated the news of the French President’s participation in the ASEM13. He agreed that ASEAN and the EU should jointly collaborate to boost collaboration in multiple areas. The two need to work closely, albeit in a comprehensive and stable manner. He urged cooperation between Cambodia and France in bilateral as well as multilateral frameworks.

Cambodia and France enjoy close and cordial bilateral relations. Cambodia was a protectorate of France from 1863-1953. Due to their shared history, the two have a special relationship.