Motorcyclists ride pass the Peace Palace, which displays a banner congratulating the successful first Cabinet meeting under new Prime Minister Hun Manet. The meeting is slated to take place on August 24. Heng Chivoan
World leaders have been quick to convey their congratulations to Hun Manet as he took the reins as Prime Minister of Cambodia on August 22.
The spectrum of congratulatory notes paints a vivid picture, extending regionally from Thailand to Japan, and globally to countries as far away as Africa.
The bond between nations is often echoed in the words of their leaders. North Korea’s Premier Kim Tok-hun, in his message to Manet, emphasised the enduring historical ties of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
“The long-standing relations between our countries will continue to flourish, reflecting the hopes and wishes of our people. I also wish Your Excellency success in your pivotal role, working for the growth and wellbeing of your nation,” he conveyed.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida penned his sentiments in his native Japanese, highlighting the deep-seated bonds of cooperation between Japan and Cambodia, which have been instrumental in restoring peace and paving the way for the Kingdom’s sustained development.
He went on to note the evolving nature of this partnership, stating: “Beyond economic collaboration, our joint efforts now encompass vital areas such as digital security and telecommunications.”
Kishida conveyed his strong commitment to strengthening the alliance, stating that he is dedicated to enhancing bilateral ties on both regional and international fronts. He also emphasised Japan’s genuine desire to work closely with Cambodia in promoting democracy.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang voiced his commendation for Manet and articulated China’s “unwavering support” for Cambodia’s unique journey.
“China firmly stands by Cambodia as it carves a path tailored to its distinctive national fabric. With the guidance of the new leadership, Cambodia is poised to scale even greater heights of prosperity,” he said.
Singapore’s response was remarkable in its sheer volume. Multiple figures from the nation’s leadership took a moment to share their warm wishes.
Among them were foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan, coordinating minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean, and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Their collective messages further underline the widespread recognition and support that Manet has garnered upon his appointment.
Outgoing Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha conveyed his optimism for the future under Manet’s leadership.
“It’s my firm belief that under your guidance, Cambodia will chart a path towards heightened peace and prosperity,” he said.
“Our nations have blossomed into partners, fostering peace and shared prosperity. With our people’s unwavering friendship and cooperation, our bond is bound to grow, benefiting both our countries and the wider region,” he reflected.
Media reports highlighted a phone dialogue between Manet and the newly-minted Thai Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, which took place on the day they took office.
Narrating the exchange to Fresh News, Manet shared: “We both offered our best wishes upon our appointments and pledged to amplify the camaraderie and collaboration between our governments and citizens.”
From Vietnam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh expressed his intent to deepen ties with Cambodia, saying: “I am keen on aligning with Cambodia to bolster and nurture our bond, rooted in neighbourly warmth, age-old friendship, comprehensive partnership, and enduring stability”.
He underscored the mutual benefits of such an alliance.
“This will be a boon for our people, reinforcing the peace, stability and prosperity of the ASEAN Community, and contributing positively on a regional and global scale,” he said.
From Myanmar, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing – chairman of the ruling State Administration Council – highlighted the six-decade-long bond between Myanmar and Cambodia. He praised the mutual respect and benefits that have characterised their relationship.
“I’m resolute in my belief that under your insightful leadership, the collaboration between our nations will only grow, yielding benefits for our people in the years ahead,” he said.
From the African continent, Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo extended his anticipation of working with Manet.
“I eagerly await our collaboration, both bilaterally and multilaterally, to solidify the ties between our nations and explore new avenues of mutual benefit,” he expressed.
Local perspectives mirrored this global optimism.
Thong Mengdavid, a research fellow at the Asian Vision Institute’s Mekong Centre for Strategic Studies, noted the importance of global ties.
“Building and nurturing relationships worldwide is pivotal for mutual assistance, collaboration and commerce,” he observed.
Reflecting on Cambodia’s political landscape, he said: “This new leadership signifies a transformative phase in modern Cambodian history. Yet, it’s imperative that the emerging leaders seek wisdom from their forerunners.”
