On November 13, 2024, His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, held a courtesy meeting with Mr. David Verbiwski, Chargé d’Affaires of the Office of the Embassy of Canada in Phnom Penh. This meeting highlighted the strong and developing relationship between Cambodia and Canada, underscored by recent diplomatic advancements and mutual commitments to increased cooperation.
During their discussion, both parties acknowledged the significant progress in Cambodia-Canada relations over recent years. A milestone in this growing partnership is the Canadian government’s decision to elevate its diplomatic presence in Cambodia, transforming its office in Phnom Penh into a full embassy. This decision follows constructive discussions between Cambodia’s Prime Minister, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, and Canada’s Prime Minister, the Honorable Justin Trudeau, during the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos, in October 2024. The upgrade reflects Canada’s commitment to expanding its role and presence in Southeast Asia, particularly in Cambodia, as the two nations continue to develop economic, cultural, and political ties.
Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea emphasized that this upgrade in Canada’s diplomatic representation is a significant step in the history of Cambodia-Canada relations, one that will foster stronger collaboration across a range of sectors. He assured Mr. Verbiwski of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation’s support in facilitating the transition, reinforcing Cambodia’s eagerness to see this transformation realized and its benefits unfold. This new status for the Canadian Embassy is expected to enhance bilateral engagements, create opportunities for joint initiatives, and strengthen diplomatic collaboration in addressing regional and global challenges.
In addition to discussing the embassy transition, Mr. Verbiwski shared Canada’s plans to send a trade delegation, known as the “Team Canada Trade Mission,” to Cambodia in 2025. This mission aims to explore opportunities for trade promotion and investment, bringing Canadian businesses and investors to assess Cambodia’s potential as a growing economic market. The upcoming trade mission marks a pivotal moment in Cambodia-Canada economic relations, as it will facilitate connections between businesses in both countries, promote new investments, and help diversify Cambodia’s trade partnerships. The initiative aligns with Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign direct investment and develop a sustainable and diverse economy.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for Mr. Verbiwski to congratulate Cambodia on being selected to host the 2026 Francophonie Summit. Canada, as a prominent member of the Francophonie community, expressed its commitment to supporting Cambodia’s preparation for this high-profile event. Mr. Verbiwski emphasized that Canada values its partnership with Cambodia within the Francophonie and is eager to collaborate closely throughout the planning process. The Francophonie Summit will provide Cambodia a platform to showcase its culture, tourism, and role in the international Francophone community while strengthening diplomatic ties with other French-speaking countries.
The discussions during the meeting reinforced shared values between Cambodia and Canada, especially within multilateral frameworks such as the Francophonie, where both nations advocate for cultural exchange, sustainable development, and peace. Canada’s planned participation in the 2026 Francophonie Summit preparation, along with the planned Team Canada Trade Mission, signals Canada’s recognition of Cambodia as an essential partner in Southeast Asia.
As Cambodia and Canada move forward with these diplomatic advancements and collaborative projects, the relationship between the two nations is set to reach new heights. The transformation of Canada’s diplomatic office in Phnom Penh into a full embassy will enable both countries to deepen their cooperation across political, economic, and cultural spheres. With enhanced diplomatic channels and initiatives like the 2025 trade mission, Cambodia stands to benefit from expanded trade, investment, and international partnerships.
The meeting between Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea and Mr. David Verbiwski reflects a mutual commitment to nurturing a robust and dynamic partnership. As Cambodia and Canada strengthen their ties, they are opening doors to new opportunities that promise mutual growth, economic collaboration, and an enduring partnership built on shared values and a commitment to progress.
Source: MFAIC News
