The Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Phnom Penh commemorated Singapore’s 60th National Day on August 9, while underscoring the enduring partnership between its country and Cambodia.
The event featured remarks by Singaporean Ambassador Teo Lay Cheng and Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Prak Sokhonn.
In her speech, Ambassador Teo highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, noting that Singapore and Cambodia shared a relationship spanning six decades because the Kingdom was among the first countries to recognise the republic as an independent state in 1965.
“This early trust has built something really special – a relationship that has grown over time, between our governments, businesses, and most importantly, our people,” she said.
She emphasised Singapore’s role as one of Cambodia’s largest investors and key development partners. She noted recent high-level visits, including one from Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to Cambodia last month, and Deputy Prime Minister Hang Chuon Naron’s participation in the Lee Kuan Yew exchange fellowship programme.
“When Singapore and Cambodia come together, we don’t just talk – we translate ideas into reality,” she said.
Reflecting on her four years in Cambodia, Ambassador Teo expressed gratitude for the warm friendship and shared experiences, describing the partnership as being “rooted in trust, tested by time, and renewed by successive generations.”
Sokhonn congratulated Singapore on its milestone, praising the city-state’s transformation into a global hub of innovation, business, and cultural diversity.
He highlighted the legacy of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, whose vision continues to inspire.
Sokhonn hailed the 60 years of diplomatic ties between Cambodia and Singapore, recalling the “shared vision” of the two founding leaders. “Our close friendship began in 1965 and has since been built on mutual trust and respect,” he said.
He noted that the two countries have expanded cooperation in trade, investment, education, defence, digital governance, renewable energy, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
Human resource development remains a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation. Cambodia appreciates Singapore’s support in training and integration initiatives, he added.
Tourism flows between the two nations are also steadily growing, with over 45,000 Singaporeans visiting Cambodia last year.
