PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA — In a major step toward strengthening regional ties, Cambodian Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen praised the deepening diplomatic and economic partnership between Cambodia and the Philippines. The remarks were shared during a farewell meeting with the outgoing Philippine Ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Ms. Flerida Ann Camille P. Mayo, at the Senate’s Solidarity Palace.
The high-level talk highlighted the significant progress made during Ambassador Mayo’s tenure, noting that frequent diplomatic visits have built strong political trust between the two ASEAN nations. Key milestones included the official state visit of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Cambodia and Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet’s working visit to the Philippines.
Expanding Agricultural Logistics and Rice Shipments
A core focus of the meeting centered on trade diversification, particularly expanding Cambodia’s growing agricultural export market. Ambassador Mayo emphasized that the Philippines maintains a strong interest in importing higher volumes of Cambodian agricultural goods.
To capitalize on this demand, Samdech Techo Hun Sen explicitly targeted a strategic increase in Cambodian milled rice exports to the Philippine market.
Both nations view agriculture as a primary foundation for their economic ties, with trade frameworks expected to become more open over the next few years.
Direct Flight Connectivity to Drive Tourism and Business
To sustain this economic momentum, the Senate President urged aviation authorities and commercial carriers to aggressively expand direct flight connectivity between the two countries.
“More direct flights will simultaneously facilitate tourism, streamline business activities, and forge stronger people-to-people links,” Samdech Techo Hun Sen stated.
Ambassador Mayo welcomed the proposal, noting that Cambodia has become an increasingly popular and attractive destination for Filipino travelers looking for cultural and heritage experiences. Expanding flight routes is seen as a vital step to simplify travel for both business professionals and tourists.
Reaffirming Peace and Stability Along the Border
Beyond bilateral economic cooperation, Samdech Techo Hun Sen briefed the Ambassador on the current situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border. He reiterated Cambodia’s firm, consistent stance on resolving all border demarcation issues peacefully by relying strictly on international law and established bilateral mechanisms.
In response, Ambassador Mayo confirmed that—with the Philippines acting as the current ASEAN Chair and leading the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT)—the nation will continue to support peaceful resolution efforts in a neutral and impartial manner. This cooperative stance ensures that regional stability remains a top priority for all member states.
