PHNOM PENH: The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sar Sokha, revealed intentions to enhance bilateral security cooperation with Timor-Leste. This announcement was made during a meeting with Timor-Leste's Ambassador to Cambodia, Ermenegildo Kupa Lopes, at the Ministry of Interior's headquarters.

Sar Sokha expressed a desire for both nations to establish an understanding in the security sector and to exchange policing experiences with the aim of bolstering police resources and democratic state security in Timor-Leste.

In the presence of Ambassador Kupa Lopes, Sar Sokha emphasized the need for heightened collaborative efforts to tackle cross-border criminal activities. Both leaders agreed on the essential need for higher levels of cooperation to address these regional challenges effectively.

The Minister also extended gratitude to the Timor-Leste Ambassador for his active role in promoting and enhancing the bilateral relations between the two countries, especially in commerce, investment, and tourism sectors, in addition to security.

Furthermore, Sar Sokha congratulated Timor-Leste for being granted the status of the 11th member of ASEAN during the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits held under Cambodia's ASEAN chairmanship in 2022.

The Ambassador expressed confidence that under Sar Sokha leadership, the Ministry of Interior of Cambodia would continue to ensure public order, peace, and social security for the Cambodian people.

Both Cambodian leadership and the Timor-Leste Ambassador in Cambodia are optimistic that this strong relationship and effective cooperation will continue to flourish, bringing mutual benefits to the peoples of both nations.