Czech Republic eyes investment surge in Cambodia trade talks

Czech Republic eyes investment surge in Cambodia trade talks

The newly appointed Czech Ambassador to Cambodia has pledged to prioritise economic cooperation, tourism, and legislative exchange to further enhance the long-standing bilateral relationship between the two nations.

During a meeting at the National Assembly yesterday, Ambassador Markéta Kohajdová met with Cham Prasidh, Member of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King and President of the Cambodia-Czech Parliamentarian Friendship Group, to discuss strengthening ties across multiple sectors.

Ambassador Kohajdová said that her diplomatic mandate will focus on enhancing collaboration between both the executive and legislative bodies. “I am committed to facilitating exchange visits between our parliamentary friendship groups and fostering deeper people-to-people connections,” the Ambassador stated.

She said her intent to actively mobilise Czech investors and tourists to explore opportunities in Cambodia, aiming to balance the robust political relationship with increased commercial activity.

In response, Prasidh warmly welcomed the Ambassador, remarking that her presence reaffirms the lasting solidarity between the two nations.

He said to the unique historical bond shared by the nations, specifically referencing King Norodom Sihamoni, who spent his formative years studying in Prague. “The King’s education in the Czech Republic remains a profound symbol of our excellent bilateral relations,” he said.

While recognising the strong diplomatic foundation, Prasidh noted that significant potential remains untapped in the economic sector. He expressed gratitude for the Czech Republic’s decision to convert previous Cambodian debt into development aid for education – a move that has directly supported the Kingdom’s human resource development.

Regarding educational cooperation, the Czech Republic has granted 19 new scholarships for Cambodian students this year.

Since 1984, around 400 Cambodian students have studied at higher education institutions in the Czech Republic.

Prasidh wrapped up the meeting by urging more frequent high-level visits and a broader cooperation framework to promote mutual growth and sustainable development for both nations. 

khmertimeskh