Japan’s newly appointed ambassador to Cambodia, Hideo Ishizuki, pledged yesterday to deepen bilateral ties during an introductory meeting with Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace.

Ambassador Ishizuki praised the steady development of relations, which were upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023, highlighting ongoing collaboration in security, defence, trade, investment, and mine clearance.

Mr Hun Manet welcomed the ambassador and expressed confidence that bilateral relations would continue to expand during his tenure. He thanked Tokyo for supporting infrastructure projects, mine clearance initiatives, military training, and joint efforts in UN peacekeeping operations.

The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation into emerging sectors, including artificial intelligence and green technology. Mr Hun Manet also outlined government incentives designed to attract Japanese investors and foster business-to-business links.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the prime minister briefed the envoy on current developments along the Cambodia–Thailand border, reiterating Phnom Penh’s commitment to resolving border issues peacefully through international law and existing bilateral treaties. AKP