Cambodia-Myanmar Parliamentary Chiefs Meet, Sign MOUs to Deepen Bilateral Ties

Cambodian National Assembly President Khuon Sudary met with Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing in Phnom Penh on September 11th, signing four Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in political, economic, cultural, and media sectors. The meeting, held as both nations celebrate the 71st anniversary of their diplomatic relations, was hosted by the Cambodian National Assembly. President Sudary warmly welcomed the Myanmar President and his delegation, recognizing the state visit as a historically significant event. Sudary highlighted the deep friendship between Cambodia and Myanmar, rooted in shared history, culture, and Buddhism, emphasizing mutual respect for independence, sovereignty, and non-interference in internal affairs. She underscored Cambodia's support for Myanmar's efforts to resolve its domestic challenges and the importance of deepening cooperation as ASEAN members. The four signed MOUs cover: 1. Elimination of double taxation on income and prevention of tax evasion and avoidance. 2. Promotion and reciprocal protection of investments. 3. Amendment to the agreement on cultural cooperation. 4. Cooperation in information and media sectors. These agreements are expected to significantly boost trade, investment, cultural exchange, tourism, information flow, and people-to-people ties between the two countries. President Sudary also emphasized the role of "parliamentary diplomacy" in complementing executive diplomacy, suggesting that parliamentary dialogue can offer flexible solutions when high-level executive relations face complexities. She proposed enhancing practical cooperation through reciprocal visits of high-ranking officials and specialized committees, revitalizing parliamentary friendship groups, promoting the roles of young and female parliamentarians, and strengthening the capacity and experience exchange between the secretariats of both parliaments. Furthermore, Sudary shared valuable insights on the "value of peace," drawing from Cambodia's experiences. She stated that "war cannot end war" and that conflicts always create losers, with women and children bearing the brunt of suffering. She stressed that economic development, improved living standards, education, and heritage protection cannot be achieved without complete political stability and peace, advocating for peaceful dispute resolution based on international law as the only path to true peace and national reconciliation. She expressed hope for Myanmar to play a more active role within ASEAN, contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. In response, President Min Aung Hlaing expressed his profound respect and admiration for Cambodia's hospitality and warm welcome. He congratulated Sudary on becoming Cambodia's first female National Assembly President and praised her leadership in promoting women's roles in politics, noting Myanmar also promotes women's participation, including its female Vice President. The President reaffirmed Myanmar's commitment to preserving and nurturing traditional friendship, expanding cooperation in trade, economy, defense, and people-to-people exchanges, as well as parliamentary cooperation at all levels. President Min Aung Hlaing fully agreed with Sudary's views on peace, stating that Myanmar is striving to restore peace, stability, and national unity, and that Cambodia serves as a key model for sharing lessons and experiences in peacebuilding and development. He extended an invitation to President Sudary for an official visit to Myanmar at a mutually convenient time. Source: CEN Cambodia