Phnom Penh, July 2, 2025 – In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral ties, the Prime Ministers of Cambodia and Singapore reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening cooperation across political, economic, and regional spheres during an official visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia by Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
At the invitation of Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister Wong and his spouse, Madam Wong, paid their first official visit to Cambodia on July 2. The visit, which coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, was marked by a series of high-level meetings, ceremonial tributes, and reaffirmations of mutual priorities.
Prime Minister Wong laid wreaths at Phnom Penh’s Independence Monument and paid respects at the Royal Memorial of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, the revered Late King-Father of Cambodia. He also met with His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, and paid a courtesy call on Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate.
In bilateral talks, Prime Minister Hun Manet and Prime Minister Wong held comprehensive discussions covering political cooperation, defense and security, economic and investment ties, human capital development, and regional connectivity.
The two leaders recalled the longstanding friendship between Cambodia’s Late King-Father and Singapore’s founding Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, which laid the foundation for today’s strong relationship.
Broadening Political and Security Engagement
The Prime Ministers agreed on the need for regular engagement at all levels, including between executive and legislative branches. They praised the success of the 2nd Political Consultations between the foreign ministries held on June 5 in Singapore and agreed to continue using this mechanism to bolster political dialogue.
On security, both leaders committed to enhancing cooperation against transnational threats including cybercrime, money laundering, online gambling, and drug trafficking. They welcomed the upcoming signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Preventing and Combating Transnational Crimes, and pledged to facilitate exchanges among law enforcement agencies.
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Boosting Economic Growth and Investment
Amid ongoing global economic uncertainties, the leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening trade and investment. With Singapore currently ranking as the top ASEAN investor and third-largest foreign investor in Cambodia in 2024, both sides agreed to explore new areas of mutually beneficial trade. They encouraged relevant stakeholders to identify emerging economic opportunities and deepen inter-regional trade.
Focus on Human Capital Development
The Prime Ministers underscored the vital role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in building Cambodia’s human capital. Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed appreciation for Singapore’s continued support through the Singapore Cooperation Programme and ASEAN integration initiatives, which have significantly contributed to skills development in Cambodia.
Enhancing Energy, Digital, and Financial Connectivity
The leaders also reviewed the outcomes of the Cambodia-Laos-Singapore Energy Ministers’ Meeting in May 2024 and stressed the importance of regional energy connectivity. They called for the accelerated implementation of cross-border electricity trade and other regional energy initiatives.
Progress on digital government cooperation and the Financial Transparency Corridor—launched jointly by the National Bank of Cambodia and the Monetary Authority of Singapore—was also praised. These efforts are expected to strengthen digital tools for public service delivery and enhance cross-border financial flows.
Regional and Global Engagement
Beyond bilateral matters, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments, reaffirming their shared commitment to ASEAN centrality, unity, and peace. They emphasized working together to promote stability and supporting each other in international forums.
They also noted steady growth in tourism between the two countries, especially in medical tourism and education, with Singapore becoming an increasingly popular destination among Cambodian citizens.
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A Symbol of Lasting Friendship
Concluding the visit, Prime Minister Wong and Madam Wong extended their gratitude to Prime Minister Hun Manet, the First Lady, and the Cambodian delegation for their warm hospitality and seamless coordination. Both leaders expressed optimism that this historic visit would further elevate the strong and enduring partnership between Cambodia and Singapore for years to come.
