Phnom Penh, November 9, 2024—The U.S. Secretary of State, H.E. Antony J. Blinken, has sent a warm message of congratulations to the Cambodian people on the occasion of Cambodia’s 71st Independence Day.

“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Cambodia as you honor the 71st anniversary of your Independence Day,” Secretary Blinken wrote in a statement dated November 9.

Highlighting the strong partnership between the two nations, Secretary Blinken emphasized the United States’ commitment to working with Cambodia in promoting a “free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region.” He noted several significant milestones in U.S.-Cambodia relations over the past year, including landmark official visits by a U.S. Secretary of Defense and the USAID Administrator, the first-ever U.S.-Cambodia Public-Private Sector Dialogue, and the resumption of the bilateral Defense Policy Dialogue.

Looking forward, Secretary Blinken expressed excitement for the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Cambodia relations in the coming year, which he described as a “testament to the strong bonds between our governments and people.” To commemorate this milestone, the United States plans to strengthen ties with Cambodia through initiatives involving Cambodia’s role as the U.S.-ASEAN Country Coordinator, economic and educational exchanges, law enforcement cooperation, and efforts to preserve Cambodia’s cultural heritage.

The message underscored the United States’ appreciation for ongoing collaboration with Cambodia on both regional and global issues.

Cambodia celebrates its Independence Day today, marking 71 years of sovereignty since its liberation from French colonial rule on November 9, 1953.