PHNOM PENH: On August 4, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, visiting the Kingdom of Cambodia to attend the Japan-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Prak Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

Minister Hayashi expressed his gratitude for the condolences received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia and the Cambodian people on the passing of former Japanese Prime Minister ABE Shinzo. He expressed his willingness to strengthen bilateral relations which is at the best level ever toward the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Cambodia next year. In response, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn expressed his condolences once again on the passing of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe and his willingness to work closely with Minister Hayashi to strengthen bilateral relations in responding to various regional and international situations.

BILATERAL RELATIONS.

(1)Critical infrastructure

Minister Hayashi stated that Japan will cooperate to make the Sihanoukville Port operate as a hub port for Cambodia and the region. In response, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn expressed his gratitude for Japan's support in the development of the port and other wide-ranging support.

(2)Security cooperation

Minister Hayashi welcomed this year's mutual high-level visits by defense officials, the implementation of the capacity building projects for PKO, and the commencement of negotiations for the TOR between the Royal Cambodian Army and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. He stated that he would like to promote continuous visits to Ream base, including port calls, by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). In response, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn stated that Cambodia appreciates and values security cooperation with Japan and would like to further advance this cooperation including the next visit to the Ream base.

(3)Democracy

Minister Hayashi stated that Japan has supported Cambodia's democratic development. He expressed his hope that the general election in Cambodia next July will be conducted in a manner that reflects the diverse voices of the Cambodian people.

REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SITUATIONS

1)Situation in Myanmar

Minister Hayashi expressed his serious concerns over the execution of Myanmer citizens by the Myanmar military. He stated that he would do his utmost to support the efforts of ASEAN, including Cambodia as the ASEAN Chair . In response, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn expressed his gratitude for Japan's unwavering support and his willingness to work with Japan to resolve the situation.

(2)ASEAN Relations

Minister Hayashi expressed his gratitude for the contributions of Cambodia as the ASEAN Chair in hosting the ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers' Meetings. In response, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn expressed his gratitude for Japan's support during Cambodia's ASEAN chairmanship. The two Ministers also shared the view to work together for the success of a series of the meetings, given multiple challenges such as the situation in Ukraine, North Korea's nuclear, missile and abductions issue, and the South China Sea issue. In addition, the two Ministers also concurred to continue to work closely for the success of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation next year.