Cambodia, Thailand encouraged to upgrade ties to comprehensive strategic partnership

According to Hun Sen, president of the Cambodian Senate, Cambodia and Thailand should work toward upgrading their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra made the suggestion on Wednesday afternoon during a courtesy visit to the Senate Palace in Phnom Penh.

Hun Sen warmly welcomed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s visit, emphasising its importance in advancing the strategic partnership between the two neighbouring Kingdoms, especially as this year marks the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

He noted that while current ties are strong, the “strategic partnership” level does not fully reflect the depth and breadth of cooperation between the two countries. Given their collaboration across various sectors, he suggested upgrading the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Hun Sen also encouraged enhanced cooperation in economic and trade sectors—not only bilaterally, but also within broader regional frameworks such as the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS), the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Strengthening these ties, he said, would help both nations diversify markets and respond to the rapidly changing global context, particularly amid intensifying geopolitical and economic competition.

During the meeting, Paetongtarn Shinawatra shared updates from her earlier discussions with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. She reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation and strengthening relations with Cambodia.

She also noted the personal rapport she shares with Prime Minister Hun Manet, highlighting that both leaders are the children of former prime ministers. This familial connection, she said, has fostered a strong sense of mutual respect and brotherhood, contributing to productive dialogue.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her spouse arrived in Phnom Penh earlier today for a two-day official visit, at the invitation of Prime Minister Hun Manet. AKP