PHNOM PENH: The leaders of Cambodia and India have exchanged congratulatory messages for the occasion of the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Republic of India.

Prime Minister Hun Sen sent a letter addressed to the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, extending his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Indian Prime Minister, the Government and people of India for the 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations.

In the letter, dated 27 May 2022, Prime Minister Hun Sen wrote, “It is indeed heart-warming to note that since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1952, our two countries have nurtured a strong and mutually beneficial partnership at all levels, be they at the bilateral, regional and multilateral level.”

While reflecting on the bilateral achievements made between Cambodia and India over the past 70 years, he said he is confident that many more cooperation opportunities could be undertaken for the mutual benefit of both countries.

“As the Chair of ASEAN this year, Cambodia is also ready to work with our ASEAN Member States and India to reinforce our ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership,” wrote Prime Minister Hun Sen. “To that effect, I look forward to warmly welcome Your Excellency to the Kingdom of Cambodia to join the ASEAN-India Summit and other Related Summits in October 2022.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sent a letter to Prime Minister Hun Sen on 27 May 2022, conveying his warm wishes on the occasion of the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations, on behalf of the Government and people of India.

“It is my firm belief that the friendship between India and Cambodia will remain strong and enduring, and we will continue to work together for an even brighter future for the mutual benefit of our people,” wrote Prime Minister Modi.

He further affirmed that he looks forward to working with Prime Minister Hun Sen to strengthen India’s cooperation within the ASEAN Framework.

Cambodia and India first established diplomatic relations on 30 May, 1956. The Cambodian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prak Sokhonn, and Indian Minister for External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, also exchanged letters of congratulations on the occasion of this anniversary.