Philippines to be PM’s first 2025 visit

Prime Minister Hun Manet (L) holds talks with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne, Australia, in March last year. AKP
Prime Minister Hun Manet is set to embark on his first official visit of 2025 to the Philippines this February, marking a significant step in Cambodia’s ongoing commitment to strengthening regional ties and cooperation within ASEAN.The announcement was made through a news release from Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. While the full agenda of the visit has yet to be disclosed, the ministry has confirmed that preparations are already underway. A preparatory meeting was held yesterday in Phnom Penh to finalise the arrangements for this important diplomatic engagement.

Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Chum Sounry could not be reached for comment.

Mr Hun Manet’s visit reflects the government’s priorities under the 7th legislature of the National Assembly, which include fostering ASEAN unity and centrality. Since taking office on August 22, 2023, Mr Hun Manet’s administration has emphasised regional cooperation as a cornerstone of its foreign policy, aligning with ASEAN’s vision of integration and partnership.

This visit is expected to further enhance bilateral relations between Cambodia and the Philippines, building on shared goals within ASEAN, such as promoting economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and regional stability.

During a meeting between Mr Hun Manet and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne, Australia, in March last year, the two leaders agreed to strengthen defence ties to address mutual security concerns and boost the rice trade between the two nations.

The leaders also discussed expanding flight connections to enhance accessibility to the countries’ premier tourism destinations.

Mr Hun Manet expressed his interest in further discussions on connectivity and increasing the number of tourists travelling between Cambodia and the Philippines. Marcos informed Mr Hun Manet that the Philippine government has enlisted a group to modernise and enhance the efficiency of Manila airport. Additionally, he mentioned the ongoing development of regional airports near tourist destinations to attract more travellers to the Philippines.

Marcos and Mr Hun Manet also agreed to bolster defence ties in order to address shared security concerns.