The Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) and the Japanese Red Cross Society (Hiroshima Branch) have finished their planning for an exciting upcoming youth exchange trip. This trip is a key step in the partnership they recently strengthened.
Planning the Trip
CRC Secretary-General, H.E. Ms. Pum Chantinie, met on Thursday with Mr. Hiroaki Sakai, Secretary-General of the Japanese Red Cross Hiroshima Chapter, at the CRC headquarters in Phnom Penh.
Their discussions focused on the study and exchange program scheduled for December 16–22, 2025. The Japanese delegation will include 15 youth and staff members from Hiroshima, who will visit Siem Reap province and Phnom Penh.
Strengthening Cooperation
H.E. Ms. Pum Chantinie welcomed Mr. Sakai and highlighted how important this visit is, especially since the CRC and the Japanese Red Cross recently signed a five-year agreement (2025–2029). She called the agreement a major milestone for improving cooperation, encouraging youth leadership, and expanding humanitarian work between the two nations.
The program for the Hiroshima youth is designed to be very hands-on, featuring many community activities, such as:
- Environmental awareness and climate action.
- Public health and safety.
- Cultural exchange.
H.E. Ms. Chantinie promised that the CRC would offer its best hospitality to the Japanese delegation. She also plans to meet the visitors in Siem Reap and join them for a tree-planting activity.
Positive First Impressions
Mr. Sakai expressed his sincere thanks for the warm welcome from the Cambodian Red Cross. After arriving and meeting with the CRC Siem Reap Branch, he shared a positive view of the country.
“I was pleased to observe Cambodia’s peace, safety, and welcoming environment—factors I believe will greatly support the forthcoming youth exchange programme,” Mr. Sakai noted.
He also asked the CRC leaders for their continued support in looking after the well-being of the Hiroshima youth throughout their visit.
Mr. Sakai’s Visit
Mr. Sakai arrived in Cambodia on November 18, 2025, landing in Siem Reap. While there, he met with the provincial CRC leaders and visited places prepared for the December program, including the Chong Khneas floating village, the CRC Millennium Park, and guesthouses in the Angkor Thom area. He also toured the famous Angkor Wat Temple complex before heading to Phnom Penh for the high-level meeting.