Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, has lauded the deepening ties between Cambodia and Vietnam, noting that cooperation across multiple sectors continues to flourish.
The Senate President shared his remarks during the celebration of Vietnam’s 80th National Day on August 21, hosted by the Embassy of Vietnam in Phnom Penh. He highlighted that Cambodia places high value on its close bond with Vietnam, a relationship rooted in “good neighborliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation, and long-term stability.”
Hun Sen recalled the shared history between the two nations, underlining Cambodia’s solidarity with Vietnam during its fight for reunification and independence. He also expressed gratitude for Vietnam’s sacrifices, particularly the role of Vietnamese volunteer forces in helping to overthrow the genocidal regime in Cambodia, ensuring it never returned, and supporting the country’s rebuilding efforts.
“This is a historical truth that no reactionary force can change,” Hun Sen emphasized, pointing to the enduring foundation of trust and mutual respect that has defined Cambodia-Vietnam relations.
The Senate President highlighted that bilateral cooperation is progressing in national defense, education, health, energy, tourism, science, and technology. He stressed that these collaborative efforts bring significant benefits to both nations while contributing to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Hun Sen further praised the active exchanges between the two governments, legislatures, and people-to-people contacts. Such consistent interaction, he noted, ensures that the friendship remains strong and continues to serve the interests of both countries.
Economic cooperation was another key point raised. Hun Sen reported that bilateral trade between Cambodia and Vietnam surpassed US$10 billion in 2024, reflecting an 18 percent increase from 2023. He added that Vietnam is Cambodia’s third-largest trading partner, ranking fifth among foreign investors globally and second among ASEAN states after Singapore.
The two nations have committed to expanding their trade to US$20 billion in the coming years. Tourism is also flourishing, with Vietnamese tourist arrivals to Cambodia growing by nearly 32 percent. Currently, 100 direct flights operate weekly between the two countries, serviced by airlines from both sides.
Hun Sen acknowledged Cambodia and Vietnam’s joint efforts within international frameworks, including the United Nations, ASEAN, and other regional mechanisms. Such cooperation, he said, not only promotes the two nations’ common interests but also strengthens peace, stability, and sustainable development globally.
Since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1967, Cambodia and Vietnam have consistently nurtured a partnership built on trust, solidarity, and mutual benefit. Hun Sen concluded his remarks with confidence that this relationship will continue to deepen for generations to come.