PHNOM PENH, April 10, 2024 — Prime Minister Hun Manet recently met with Ms. Chihoko Asada-Miyakawa, Assistant Director-General and Regional Director for Asia-Pacific of the International Labor Organization (ILO), to discuss ongoing and future collaborations at the Peace Palace.

During the meeting, Ms. Asada-Miyakawa expressed her gratitude for the Prime Minister's availability and highlighted the longstanding cooperation between the ILO and Cambodia. She committed to further strengthening this partnership, particularly praising Cambodia's efforts in implementing a robust social protection policy for economically vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also supported Cambodia's preparations for graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category by 2029.

Ms. Asada-Miyakawa commended the Royal Government's initiatives to enhance employment and vocational training and promote harmonious industrial relations within factories and enterprises. She sought the Prime Minister’s guidance on how the ILO might continue supporting Cambodia’s strategic and policy frameworks.

Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed the visit, appreciating the ILO's contributions to Cambodia’s development. He endorsed the ILO's ongoing programs and urged continued support for enhancing job sector capabilities in Cambodia. This includes building human capital that aligns with market demands, thereby contributing to Cambodia’s goal of becoming a high-income country by 2050.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the current government prioritizes improving livelihoods through six key policies that address health, education, and social protection reforms. He specifically noted efforts to foster harmonious work environments in factories and enterprises, enhancing conditions for both workers and employers, and ensuring effective resolution of labor disputes through the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training.

He concluded by wishing Ms. Asada-Miyakawa success in her role and a safe journey back, reflecting on the productive discussions aimed at furthering socio-economic growth and development in Cambodia.