The Cambodian ambassador and migrant workers in South Korea welcomed a statement by Prime Minister Hun Manet, who recently directed officials to establish a consular office in the East Asian country, making passport issuance and renewal more convenient.

They believe this will cut down on associated costs and the need to travel back to Cambodia for this purpose.

On September 9, addressing over 18,000 workers in Kampong Speu province, Manet highlighted the need to bring passport services closer to migrant workers, starting with South Korea.

“I decided that we must create a consular office there, a permanent post, and send our officials to manage the data and provide quick services to our workers. As a result, workers will not need to take flights home, risking the loss of legal residence due to delays,” Manet said.

Manet directed the Ministry of Interior’s General Department of Identification and the Ministry of Economy and Finance to collaborate on this initiative.

The following day, Cambodian ambassador to South Korea, Chring Botum Rangsay, and migrant workers expressed their support.

In a letter to the Prime Minister on September 10, Rangsay stated: “This is exciting news for our migrant workers, especially those in South Korea”.

She praised the decision as part of the new Prime Minister’s vision to bring public services closer to people, both at home and abroad.

Pich Virak, a worker in South Korea, expressed his joy on Facebook, saying: “I thank the Prime Minister for caring about those of us working abroad. This is excellent news for us in South Korea. Once the office is established, we won’t need to worry about passport expiration or loss anymore”.

Pav Sina, president of the Collective Union of Movement of Workers, also commended Manet’s commitment.

“This decision will significantly ease the situation for our overseas workers, reducing time and costs. It also reflects the Prime Minister’s care for migrant workers,” he said.