On July 10, 2024, Her Excellency Yentieng Puthirasmey, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, hosted Mrs. Kristin Parco, the outgoing Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Cambodia, at the ministry’s offices.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Mrs. Parco to present a review of the progress made during her five-year tenure in enhancing the IOM’s mission and operations in Cambodia. Topics of discussion also included the introduction of her successor who is poised to take office in the near future, maintaining the continuity of the IOM’s objectives and initiatives in the country.
Throughout the encounter, both parties reflected on the fruitful collaboration between the IOM and the Cambodian government thus far. Her Excellency Yentieng Puthirasmey and Mrs. Kristin Parco expressed their mutual intentions to further cultivate the relationship. Underscoring the significant impact of their joint efforts, they discussed how future collaboration could advance the condition and opportunities for Cambodian migrants living internationally.
The cooperative dialogue underscored the dedication on both sides to addressing the challenges faced by Cambodian migrants. Ensuring the safety, rights, and well-being of these individuals remains a priority, and the continuous partnership with the IOM is seen as instrumental to achieving those aims. Within the scope of their conversation, the importance of sustainable development, targeted support for migration-related needs, and the overarching ambition to uplift the Cambodian diaspora were reiterated.
The interchange of ideas and shared determination to solidify the foundation of support for Cambodians abroad culminated in a commitment to reinforce the bonds and strategic collaboration between the IOM and Cambodia. As Mrs. Kristin Parco prepares to pass the baton to the next Chief of Mission, the meeting reflected both an acknowledgment of the advancements made and an optimistic outlook towards the initiatives and development that lie ahead.
With new leadership on the horizon for the IOM in Cambodia, the stage is set for ongoing contribution to the nation’s diplomatic and humanitarian goals, whereby improving the lives of Cambodian migrants remains a crucial and shared objective for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the IOM.
Source: MFAIC
