In a significant move poised to fortify the burgeoning relationship between India and Cambodia, Indian Ambassador to Cambodia, Devyani Uttam Khobragade, extended her gratitude to Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, for his pivotal role in proposing the initiation of direct flight services connecting India with Cambodia.
This gesture of appreciation came to light during a ceremonial visit paid by Ambassador Khobragade to Samdech Techo on the 20th of May, 2024, at the Cambodian Senate. The ambassador voiced her conviction that this new venture would not only bolster economic and trade connections but significantly enhance interpersonal ties between the citizens of the two countries.
Recollecting their last interaction in 2021 when Samdech Techo served as Prime Minister, they reminisced about the discussions surrounding the historic visit of Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni to India, marking a milestone in the diplomatic relations shared by the nations. Additionally, a notable visit by Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet during his tenure as the commander-in-chief of the Army was highlighted, reinforcing the depth of their collaborative ventures.
Samdech Techo expressed contentment over India’s democratic election process, commending the remarkable functionality of one of the largest democracies globally. On her part, Ambassador Khobragade underscored Samdech Techo’s visionary leadership and commended his decision to transfer responsibilities to the succeeding generation, ensuring a robust democratic and developmental trajectory for Cambodia.
Accentuating the significance of their six-decade-long association, the ambassador praised the visits undertaken by Cambodian dignitaries to India, acknowledging them as cornerstone events that have solidified the bilateral relations of both nations. She lauded India’s economic prowess, recognizing its status as the world’s third most economically dynamic country, expressing hope for an increase in political, economic, and security cooperations.
Anticipating the meet between the newly elected leaders of both countries within the year, Ambassador Khobragade extended an invitation to Samdech Techo to visit India, reaffirming the enduring partnership unaffected by global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasized Cambodia’s role as a strategic and balanced partner amidst the region’s geopolitical dynamics and appreciated Samdech Techo’s contributions in elevating the Cambodian-Indian partnership, especially during his tenure as the chair of the ASEAN Summit.
Reflecting on the historical connections, Samdech Techo recognized India’s steadfast support post the Pol Pot regime liberation, citing India’s recognition of Cambodia in 1979 as a testament to their enduring friendship. He highlighted initiatives such as human resource development through Indian scholarships to Cambodian officials and contributions towards cultural preservation, symbolized by the collaborative efforts at the ICC Preah Vihear.
Concluding their discussion, Samdech Techo underscored the anticipated benefits of the direct flight initiative, envisioning a strengthened bond that promises economic prosperity, cultural exchange, and mutual respect, thereby marking a new chapter in the illustrious history of Cambodian-Indian relations.
Source: Fresh News
