Japan-Cambodia Relations

State Minister Nakane noted initially that the opening of Consular Office of Japan in Siem Reap, which coincided with the 65th anniversary of the establishment of Japan-Cambodian diplomatic relations is a proof of deeping bilateral relations between two countries and explained that, as a follow-up of Prime Minister Hun Sen's visit to Japan, steady progress is being made in the areas of improvement of logistics, human resource development and reinforcement of urban functions as well as in other areas including defense cooperation, cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. In this context, he conveyed the Japan's intention to provide a yen loan for the second tranche of Phnom Penh City Transmission and Distribution System Expansion Project (Phase 2) which contributes to stabilizing the electricity supply in the metropolitan area of Phnom Penh. In response, while welcoming the opening of Consular Office of Japan in Siem Reap, the Cambodian side reassured their determination to further promote bilateral relations and also expressed their high appreciation and gratitude for the Japanese assistance which they consider is extended in accordance with Cambodia's development goals. 

While appreciating Prime Minister Hun Sen's strong support for "Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy", State Minister Nakane underlined the conformity between the intent of this strategy and the development of the Southern Economic Corridor and Sihanoukville Port which holds the key to unlock the regional prosperity. Then he reiterated Japan's commitment to back up the Cambodia's economic growth through the provision of high quality infrastructure and other assistance. He noted that Japan would announce a new direction of Japan-Mekong cooperation at the Japan-Mekong Summit Meeting which is scheduled to be organized in Tokyo in the latter half of this year. The Cambodian side reaffirmed its support for the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy" and expressed its expectation for Japan's actions. The both sides also exchanged opinions on the issues of North Koera and maritime problems including the South China Sea.

State Minister Nakane stressed that it is vital to conduct the general election this July in a way that appropriately reflects the will of the people and urged the Government of Cambodia to realize a dialogue among the concerned domestic political figures and create an environment where the rights of all politicians and civic groups are respected and the spaces of their activities are also secured. In response, the Cambodian side explained that the Government of Cambodia would adhere to the multi-party liberal democratic system and implement the national election this July as scheduled in a free, fair and stable manner.

Together with the Cambodian dignitaries, State Minister Nakane attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Consular Office of Japan in Siem Reap which was established this January and hosted a reception to celebrate its opening with the participation of around 200 guests including the representatives of Cambodian Government, local authority and Japanese residents such as H.E. Oknha Seang Nam, Member of National Assembly and H.E. Mr. Nou Palla, Chairman, Provincial Council of Siem Reap. In his remarks, State Minister Nakane assured that the newly established Consular Office will work hard to provide better consular service and promote exchanges between the two countries as a Japan's base in Siem Reap and requested the authorities and people concerned to assist the Office's activities. 

During his stay in Siem Reap, State Minister Nakane had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Khim Bunsong, Governor of Siem Reap Province, H.E. Oknha Seang Nam, Member of National Assembly (Siem Reap Consituency) and H.E. General Chay Sinarith, Deputy Commissioner of National Police and requested them to support the activities of the Consular Office as well as to pay due attention to the safety and security of Japanese residents and visitors in Siem Reap. While welcoming the opening of the Consular Office, the Cambodian side replied that they would assist the Consular Office as much as they can and do their utmost efforts to assure the safety and security of Japanese residents and visitors.