Jakarta, Indonesia
September 7, 2023

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. held bilateral talks with the newly elected Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on the sidelines of the 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The President took the opportunity to personally congratulate Prime Minister Hun Manet on his assumption of office. He also underscored Cambodia’s important role in the ASEAN under the Leadership of his father, former Prime Minister Hun Sen, as a guiding force in the regional bloc’s policy decisions.

Both leaders discussed ways to further strengthen the alliance and mutual cooperation between their two countries, particularly in trade and the exchange of information and technologies.

The Chief Executive briefed the Prime Minister on the Philippines’ agenda in the ASEAN, highlighting its priorities in areas that complement the nation’s economic planning and transformation, agricultural situation and maritime security, among others.

He also conveyed his grave concern on the effects of the looming El Niño in the Philippines, for which he hopes an agreement will be made to mitigate its effects.

Prior to assuming office, Prime Minister Hun Manet served as a four-star general in Cambodia’s military. He succeeded his father, former Prime Minister Hun Sen, who held the title of Asia’s longest-serving leader. He received the support of 123 lawmakers and became the candidate of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party.

Last year, the Philippines and Cambodia celebrated the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties, coinciding with Cambodia’s hosting of the ASEAN Summit.

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