Cambodia, Australia Agree to Deepen Cooperation Ahead of 75th Anniversary

PHNOM PENH, Sep 18, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia and Australia have agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, security, education and development following senior officials’ talks in Phnom Penh, the Foreign Ministry said Wednesday. The sixth Cambodia–Australia Senior Officials’ Talks were held on September 11, co‑chaired by Cambodian Foreign Ministry Secretary of State Un Kheang and Michelle Chan, Deputy Secretary of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Both sides reviewed ties ahead of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027 and discussed cooperation in agriculture, clean energy, education, defence and mine clearance. They also examined ways to expand bilateral and regional trade amid global market uncertainty, highlighting greater use of agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the ASEAN–Australia–New Zealand Free Trade Area. The ministry said trade between the two countries has grown steadily over the past five years. Officials identified potential for increased Australian investment in Cambodia in sectors including agriculture, agro‑processing, renewable energy, logistics, automotive and electronics industries, and vocational training. The two countries welcomed a memorandum of understanding signed on September 2 on combating transnational crime and enhancing police cooperation. Cambodian and Australian agencies already collaborate on human smuggling, drug trafficking, money laundering, terrorism, online scams and illegal immigration. Australia pledged continued support through technical assistance and capacity building. Cambodia briefed Australia on developments along its border with Thailand, reaffirming its commitment to peaceful dispute resolution under international law and thanking Canberra for mine‑clearance assistance. Both sides also reaffirmed cooperation under ASEAN–Australia and Mekong–Australia frameworks. The next round of talks will be held in Australia in 2027, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties.