Cambodia Reaffirms Commitment to Stronger US Partnership Based on Mutual Interests

Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth of Cambodia has reaffirmed the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to building a strong partnership with the United States, founded on mutual interests, respect, and trust. This statement was made during his participation as a representative of the Cambodian government at a ceremony celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Independence Day, held on the evening of July 1, 2026, at City Hall, Koh Pich, Phnom Penh, organized by the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia. The event was attended by members of the Senate, National Assembly, government officials, diplomats, the private sector, and numerous national and international distinguished guests. On this occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth extended congratulations and best wishes to the government and people of the United States on the 250th anniversary of their National Independence Day. He stated that the commemoration serves as a testament to the enduring resilience and prosperity of the American people, their institutions, and the ideals that formed the foundation of the United States. Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth highlighted that under the wise leadership of Prime Minister Dr. Hun Manet, the Royal Government of Cambodia has always attached great importance to its relationship with the United States. The two countries have maintained diplomatic relations for over 75 years, navigating numerous historical chapters that have further strengthened and solidified their ties, revealing significant potential. He also pointed to the positive momentum in Cambodia-U.S. relations, reflected in the progress of cooperation across various sectors. Specifically, in trade and investment, the United States remains Cambodia's largest export market. The signing of bilateral trade agreements, open-sky agreements, and cooperation on the Techo International Airport project are expected to deepen economic ties and open new avenues for a vibrant and mutually beneficial partnership. In the defense and national security sectors, the recent docking of the USS Cincinnati at the Ream Naval Base, coupled with the resumption of key programs such as the Angkor Sentinel training exercise and the strengthening of law enforcement cooperation, particularly in combating technology-based fraud, are fundamental to building renewed trust and confidence. Furthermore, people-to-people ties are reaching unprecedented strength, with American tourists remaining among the top visitors to Cambodia, while hundreds of thousands of Cambodians consider the United States their home. Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth expressed gratitude for the official development assistance and technical assistance provided by the United States in the past to support Cambodia's priority sectors, including the Pentagonal Strategy Phase I, as well as other crucial areas such as health, education, agriculture, demining, and the environment. He also extended special thanks to the U.S. for facilitating the repatriation of Cambodian antiquities and for providing financial support to strengthen the protection of Cambodia's cultural sovereignty and heritage. He further expressed profound gratitude to President Donald Trump for his facilitation of the ceasefire and the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement and Joint Statement on December 27, 2025. Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth concluded by stating that Cambodia looks forward to continuing dialogue and practical cooperation, as well as further strengthening relations with the United States for the benefit of both nations and to contribute to peace and prosperity in the region.