PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen has heralded the 65th anniversary of Cambodia-Russia relations. In his remarks at the 4th ASEAN-Russia Summit on Thursday afternoon, the Prime Minister said in terms of political-security cooperation, Cambodia welcomes Russia’s commitment to fighting terrorism and transnational crimes, particularly in the ICT and cybersecurity areas. He asked Russia to provide further assistance, including the necessary equipment to combat organised crime.

He also requested Russia’s assistance to help further advance the negotiation for the Cambodia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement, continuing that Cambodia would also like to express its gratitude to Russia for supporting Cambodia’s human-capacity building and request that Russia “consider exploring more opportunities for its specialists to continue their studies and participate in training courses, especially in the fields of science and technology”.

As a dialogue partner of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisations (SCO), the Prime Minister says Cambodia attaches “high importance to strengthening ASEAN-SCO Relations and supports Russia’s interest to enhance this relationship to a new height”. In light of this, the Prime Minister said, Cambodia would look into the possibility of inviting the SCO Chair to attend the 41st ASEAN Summit under Cambodia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2022.