In a significant meeting held on February 8, 2024, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFA.IC), Cambodia and the United States have pledged to continue their collaborative efforts in enhancing the health sector. The discussion, led by His Excellency CHUM Sounry, Secretary of State of the MFA.IC, and Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), highlighted the ongoing cooperation and future strategies to bolster health services in Cambodia.
The United States has significantly increased its engagement and cooperation with Cambodia, particularly in the health sector. His Excellency CHUM Sounry acknowledged the pivotal role played by the US CDC since the establishment of its office in Cambodia in 2020. The collaboration has been instrumental in strengthening Cambodia’s health infrastructure and combating various contagious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and Covid-19. The Secretary of State also expressed gratitude for the financial support provided by the US CDC through the Ministry of Health and noted the burgeoning partnership between the Ministry of Health and Pfizer.
In November of the previous year, USAID announced a substantial $35 million initiative titled “Enhancing Quality of Healthcare Activity II (EQHAII)” aimed at further supporting Cambodia’s endeavors to ameliorate the quality of health services. This announcement was recalled with appreciation by the Secretary of State, underlining the importance of continued support in this sector.
Dr. Mandy Cohen expressed her gratitude to the Royal Government of Cambodia for its unwavering support of the CDC’s mission. She pledged to intensify efforts in collaboration with the Royal Government, particularly with the Ministry of Health, to align ongoing activities with Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy in health. This alignment aims to significantly improve healthcare provision for the Cambodian populace. Dr. Cohen also praised Cambodia for its successful management and containment of Covid-19 during the pandemic.
His Excellency CHUM Sounry reassured the U.S. delegation of the MFA.IC’s commitment to facilitating and enhancing the working relationship between the Ministry of Health and the US CDC, ensuring a fruitful partnership moving forward.
This meeting underscores a mutual commitment to health sector improvements and a continued partnership between Cambodia and the United States, promising a brighter future for healthcare in Cambodia.
