Phnom Penh: On the morning of Wednesday, December 25, 2024, Senate President Hun Sen hosted a courtesy call for Mr. Nguyen Huy Tang, the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Cambodia, at the Senate Palace in Phnom Penh, marking a poignant moment as the Ambassador prepares to depart Cambodia.

During the meeting, Senate President Hun Sen expressed his pleasure in welcoming the Ambassador and his team. He presented the Cambodian decoration of honor, "The Royal Order of Sahametrei - Grand Officer," on behalf of His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the Ambassador.

In turn, Ambassador Nguyen Huy Tang expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Senate President Hun Sen, acknowledging the personal support he has received during his 44 years of diplomatic service in Cambodia. He also extended his appreciation to Cambodian leaders for bestowing upon him the esteemed decoration.

Reflecting on the enduring partnership between Vietnam and Cambodia, the Ambassador noted the remarkable progress achieved across various sectors, attributing this success to the wise leadership of founding King Norodom Sihanouk and King Norodom Sihamoni, along with the steady guidance of the Senate and the National Assembly. Their leadership has fostered significant political stability, security, and economic growth in Cambodia.

In his remarks, Ambassador Tang praised the advancements in Cambodia's diplomacy, which have bolstered the country's international standing. He highlighted the 57 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Cambodia, emphasizing robust developments in areas such as politics, military, education, and cultural exchanges—critical components of the bilateral relationship.

In response to the Ambassador's sentiments, Senate President Hun Sen expressed deep appreciation for the Ambassador's commitment to enhancing cooperation between the two countries. He acknowledged the successful coordination of high-profile visits, including those of His Majesty the King of Cambodia to Vietnam and the participation of Vietnamese leaders in significant diplomatic events in Cambodia.

Senate President Hun Sen also emphasized the crucial role of economic and trade relations in reinforcing political ties, advocating for ongoing efforts to promote people-to-people exchanges, particularly through tourism and land travel, to further strengthen the bond between the two nations.

Looking back on 57 years of diplomatic relations, he proudly noted that the Cambodian People's Party has led the country for 45 years, transforming border regions into areas of peace, development, and cooperation.

This farewell meeting not only celebrated the enduring friendship between Cambodia and Vietnam but also set a hopeful tone for future collaboration under the guidance of both nations.