Phnom Penh, Cambodia : On the evening of November 22, 2024, at the Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian People’s Party and Honorary President of the 12th International Congress of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), held a courtesy call with Zafer Sirakaya, the Deputy Chairman of Turkey’s Justice and Development Party (AK Parti).

In this meeting underscored the strengthening ties between Cambodia and Turkey, Samdech Techo extended a warm welcome to Sirakaya and his accompanying delegation, who were present to participate in the ongoing ICAPP Congress in Phnom Penh. The Cambodian leader expressed confidence that the outcomes of the Congress would enhance bilateral relations and foster greater collaboration between the two nations.

Zafer Sirakaya conveyed his gratitude for the opportunity to meet with Samdech Techo and offered congratulations on the successful conduct of the 2023 National Assembly elections as well as the forthcoming Senate elections in early 2024. He noted the positive trajectory of Cambodia-Turkey relations, highlighted by a substantial increase in trade from US$152 million in 2022 to over US$237 million in 2023. Additionally, Sirakaya announced Turkish Airlines' review of direct flight services to Cambodia, reinforcing the potential for increased mobility and bilateral trade.

Sirakaya reiterated Turkey’s ambition to achieve the joint trade target of US$1 billion, a goal set in 2018 by Samdech Techo and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This ambitious goal reflects the robust economic potential and cooperative spirit shared between the two countries.

Further, Sirakaya expressed appreciation for Cambodia's pivotal role in international counter-terrorism efforts, representing President Erdogan’s commitment to enhancing cooperative frameworks with Cambodia in this critical area. He looked forward to Samdech Techo’s anticipated visit to Turkey by the end of 2024, which will serve to deepen partnerships across multiple sectors.

The dialogue also focused on internal party relations, with Sirakaya highlighting the readiness to implement projects outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two political parties in May 2024, aimed at fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

On the matter of international relations, Sirakaya thanked Cambodia for its supportive stance on the Palestinian issue amid ongoing conflicts in the Gaza Strip, acknowledging the humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

Responding to these remarks, Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed optimism about the ongoing developments in Cambodia-Turkey relations and reiterated his desire to achieve the US$1 billion trade volume target. He emphasized Cambodia's potential as an emerging tourist destination and the importance of enhancing connectivity through direct flights.

Samdech Techo further reaffirmed Cambodia's openness to collaborative efforts in counter-terrorism, emphasizing that such initiatives pave the way for expanded cooperation across diverse sectors. He articulately shared that his upcoming visit to Turkey aims to bolster cooperation, notwithstanding his recent transition in government leadership.

Finally, Samdech Techo acknowledged Sirakaya’s attendance at the ICAPP General Assembly, recognizing it as an important platform for Turkey to broaden its international relations, particularly at a time when Europe faces pressing security challenges. He also expressed concern about the humanitarian crises in the Middle East, calling for a resolution that ensures peace and stability.