US, Cambodia highlight growing bilateral ties

US, Cambodia highlight growing bilateral ties

Prime Minister Hun Manet met with departing US Chargé d’Affaires Bridgette L. Walker at the Peace Palace yesterday, marking the end of a diplomatic mission defined by surging trade and renewed military cooperation.

The farewell meeting served as a retrospective on a busy period for the two nations. Walker praised the Prime Minister’s personal role in revitalising the relationship, which celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2025. This milestone capped decades of joint work on development and regional security.

Economic ties provided the most striking data point of the mission. US exports to Cambodia jumped 96% year on year by late 2025. This surge followed Cambodia’s landmark decision to grant duty-free access to American products, fundamentally shifting the trade balance between the two partners.

Security and health also saw significant breakthroughs. The maritime relationship reached new heights with the historic port call of the USS Cincinnati at Ream Naval Base in January 2026, following a previous visit by the USS Savannah. In the health sector, the nations formalised their partnership with a memorandum of understanding in April 2026. This followed a major public health victory: Cambodia has recorded zero local malaria transmissions since September 2025.

The discussions also touched on Cambodia’s regional influence, specifically its support for the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords. As Walker prepares to depart, both sides reaffirmed that the long-standing partnership is on its firmest footing in years, with a shared focus on future prosperity and inclusive growth.

khmertimeskh