(VOVWORLD) - Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong paid a State visit to Cambodia from last week at the invitation of Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni. The visit from Thursday to Saturday marked a milestone in bilateral ties.
 Vietnamese Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong and Cambodian King Norodom Simamoni hold talks in Phnom Penh |
Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong’s State visit to Cambodia, the first since Vietnam’s 12th National Party Congress, took place as the two countries celebrate the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Cambodia diplomatic ties. During the visit, the two sides reviewed the 50-year development of bilateral ties, lessons learned, and directions to further the relationship.
Obtaining set targets
During his three-day visit, Party leader Trong held 20 meetings with the Cambodian King, Queen Mother, and leaders of the Upper House, National Assembly, and government. Head of the Party Central Committee’s External Relations Commission Hoang Binh Quan elaborated on the outcomes of the visit: “The two sides emphasized the importance of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties 50 years ago. They agreed that the bilateral friendship and neighborliness have overcome numerous challenges to reap major achievements. They are well aware that mutual support over the past years has been based on comradeship, brotherliness, and neighborliness which are the key factors in the revolutionary cause and national development of both countries.”
During the visit, for the first time, the two Foreign Ministers have signed a Joint Statement on strengthening friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Cambodia. The Joint Statement reviews bilateral ties in the last half century and introduces a comprehensive direction for bilateral cooperation in all areas.
The two sides also signed a framework agreement on economic cooperation in the new future. Mr. Quan said: “This is the first time that the two countries have signed an economic cooperation agreement. The signing is of strategic importance, paving the way for further bilateral cooperation in all aspects.”
Beyond formal diplomatic protocols
In addition to formal diplomatic receptions, Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong and the Vietnamese delegation received a warm welcome from the Cambodian people at the airport and on their way to the Royal Palace.
Sum So Phonl of Preah Sihanouk Roja University: “I’m very happy and proud of the solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and Cambodia. This friendship enables the two countries to achieve peace, stability, and development. Neighboring countries should support one another to ensure their sustainable growth. My generation is responsible for preserving this special relationship.”
During his stay in Cambodia, the Vietnamese Party leader attended the inauguration of the Vietnam-Cambodia Friendship Monument in Preah Shihanuk.