PHNOM PENH: Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior and the Lao Ministry of Public Security have met virtually on Monday to sign a memorandum of understanding on security cooperation for 2022. Under this contract, the two countries agree to enhance and strengthen cooperation on criminal activity across the border, including the expansion of drug trafficking suppression mechanisms.

The Cambodian Minister of Interior, Sar Kheng, met with the Laotian Minister of Public Security, Lieutenant General Vilay Lakhamfong, through a virtual conference on Monday.

They have signed a security cooperation agreement for 2022.

With this MoU, Cambodia and Laos have agreed to continue fostering links between the two countries, and to strengthen security across the border to combat and address cross-border crimes such as drug trafficking, smuggling, illegal deforestation, poaching and illegal hunting. The transit of people across the border was also highlighted as a key part of the security cooperation.

Both countries agreed to continue monitoring and facilitating safe and legal transit across the border, in accordance with respective country laws and procedures. This includes the supervision of matters such as cross-border trade and tourism exchange.

At the meeting, the two Ministers shared words of praise on the level of good relations between Cambodia and Laos, and pledged to continue moving forward with the same cooperative spirit of friendship, solidarity, good neighbourliness, and mutual respect for sovereignty.

The Ministers also commended the mutual support of Cambodian and Laotian authorities and law enforcement officers stationed at the border, who continue to do good work despite the difficult situation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.