Phnom Penh, June 27, 2024 – U.S. Defense Secretary Gen. Lloyd Austin has reiterated the United States' dedication to enhancing relations with Cambodia.
Gen. Austin expressed his commitment in a thank-you letter following his second visit to Cambodia, addressed to Hun Sen, President of the Senate.
"It was a pleasure to see you again. The United States is keen on strengthening our relationship and enhancing Cambodia's security in ways that benefit its people," he wrote.
Austin appreciated the open discussions during his visit, expressing a desire to further bilateral cooperation. "I appreciated your candor regarding my proposals. I look forward to advancing our defense relationship in the next chapter," he added.
During his official visit on June 4, 2024, Gen. Austin was received by Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, and he met with Gen. Tea Seiha, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense. The meetings focused on deepening bilateral defense cooperation to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.