Cambodia and Iran Explore Strengthening Ties Through Enhanced Cooperation

PHNOM PENH, Sept 11, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has held talks with Iran’s newly appointed ambassador on ways to expand cooperation, underscoring efforts by both countries to broaden their diplomatic and economic engagement. Samdech Thipadei received Ambassador Akbar Ghasemi Ali Abadi for a courtesy call and working discussion at the Peace Palace on Thursday. The envoy praised relations between the two nations and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. Hun Manet congratulated him on his appointment and said he was confident the ambassador’s tenure would contribute to closer cooperation. The prime minister expressed interest in exploring new areas of collaboration and encouraged the ambassador to continue discussions with Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Officials said the meeting reflected Cambodia’s openness to expanding partnerships with diverse countries as part of its wider foreign policy outreach. The talks followed a separate meeting between Ghasemi Ali Abadi and Senate President Samdech Thipadei Hun Sen, who received the envoy on Wednesday. The ambassador thanked Hun Sen for his longstanding support for stronger relations and said there was scope to expand cooperation across multiple sectors, highlighting trade and agriculture as priorities. Cambodia and Iran have maintained diplomatic ties for decades but have limited economic engagement. Officials said both sides were now seeking to build on existing relations and identify new opportunities in areas of mutual interest. The meetings in Phnom Penh mark the first high‑level exchanges since Ghasemi Ali Abadi assumed his post, signaling renewed momentum in efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation and broaden Cambodia’s international partnerships.