PHNOM PENH: The National Assembly of Cambodia is seeking a Memorandum of Understanding with the government of Pakistan to deepen cooperation between the two in the near future and to serve the interests of the people of the two countries.

On January 10, National Assembly President Khuon Sodary met with Pakistani Ambassador Babar Thaheem to commitment to strengthening ties between the governments of the two countries through official agreements.

President Khuon Sodary emphasized that the strengthening of active and comprehensive cooperation between the parliaments of both countries was a primary goal. She stressed that cooperation between their legislative and executive branches will not only serve the interests of peace, stability and development of Cambodia and Pakistan, but that it will also serve the common interests of maintaining peace and stability worldwide.

The National Assembly President also asked Pakistan to consider expanding investment and trade in Cambodia in agro-food processing and Halal food and to promote establishing direct flights between the two countries to connect people and boost tourism.

The Pakistani ambassador said that drafting bilateral MoU’s could take place after his country’s February elections. He said that he is optimistic that relations in all fields will be strengthened once a Cambodian Embassy in Pakistan is officially established.

Regarding trade, the ambassador stated that the Pakistani Embassy in Phnom Penh is currently working closely with the Ministry of Commerce and the Council for the Development of Cambodia, in hopes that a trade agreement will be finalized soon.