Phnom Penh, June 13, 2024: The President of the National Assembly of Cambodia, Khuon Sodary, and Cuba’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Milena Caridad Zaldivar Piedra, emphasized their countries' enduring friendship and commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in agriculture and health.
During a meeting at the National Assembly on June 12, 2024, both leaders underscored the mutual respect, honesty, and mutual benefits that have characterized the Cambodia-Cuba relationship. They expressed a strong desire to build on the historical ties between their nations by expanding cooperation in various sectors, notably in agriculture and health.
President Sodary acknowledged Cuba’s efforts in appointing female ambassadors, aligning with Cambodia’s gender equality goals. She lauded the significant contributions of Cuban women to their country’s development and highlighted the importance of female dedication in leadership roles.
The President also stressed the strategic importance of Cambodia-Cuba relations amidst the current volatile global situation, noting that their collaboration not only benefits both nations but also contributes to global peace and stability.
Ambassador Zaldivar expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome and remarked on her deep honor of serving in Cambodia, which she considers her second home. She discussed Cuba's current economic challenges and emphasized the nation’s desire for solidarity and cooperation.
Zaldivar thanked Cambodia for its support in the international arena, particularly for consistently voting to lift sanctions on Cuba. She reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and ensuring the successful implementation of agreements between the two governments.
Highlighting the educational ties, the Ambassador confirmed Cuba’s ongoing scholarship offers to Cambodian students.
President Sodary reminisced about the foundational relationships established by former leaders King Norodom Sihanouk and President Fidel Castro and maintained through subsequent generations. She mentioned Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen’s historical visits to Cuba, which have significantly bolstered bilateral relations.
The meeting also touched on parliamentary cooperation, with both nations supporting each other in inter-parliamentary forums. The Cambodia-Cuba Parliamentary Friendship Group and its Cuban counterpart were praised for fostering connections between the legislative bodies and peoples of both countries.
Concluding the meeting, Ambassador Zaldivar extended an invitation from the President of the Cuban National Assembly for President Sodary to visit Cuba, which she accepted with appreciation.
