AKP Phnom Penh, September 25, 2026 --

Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of the Kingdom of Cambodia, received H.E. Ms. Raylene Siale Tagaloa Liufalani, newly appointed Ambassador of New Zealand to Cambodia, who presented her Letter of Credence at the Senate’s Solidarity Palace in Phnom Penh this afternoon.

According to H.E. Chea Thyrith, Spokesperson of the Senate, Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed his pleasure, on behalf of His Majesty the King of Cambodia, in welcoming the newly appointed Ambassador and congratulated her on her appointment.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen said he believed that the Ambassador’s presence in Cambodia would contribute to further strengthening and expanding relations between Cambodia and New Zealand.

H.E. Ms. Liufalani expressed her appreciation to Samdech Techo Hun Sen for granting her the opportunity to present her credentials and pay a courtesy call. She spoke positively of the good and growing relations between the two countries and expressed her admiration for Cambodia’s rapid development.

Recalling her visit to Cambodia with her husband some 20 years ago, the Ambassador said she was impressed by the country’s transformation upon returning two decades later, describing Cambodia’s progress and resilience as remarkable.

She also highlighted New Zealand’s longstanding support for Cambodia, particularly in mine clearance and scholarships for Cambodian students to study in New Zealand. To date, around 1,000 Cambodian students have studied in New Zealand under such opportunities.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen welcomed the Ambassador’s remarks and expressed appreciation for New Zealand’s continued support for the Cambodian Government and people, particularly in human resource development.

Regarding bilateral relations, Samdech Techo Hun Sen suggested that the two governments explore areas with potential to further expand cooperation. He particularly highlighted trade, the economy and investment as key areas for strengthening bilateral ties.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also welcomed the increase in trade between Cambodia and New Zealand, although the overall volume remains modest, and expressed his hope that more New Zealand investors would consider investing in Cambodia.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Samdech Techo Hun Sen wished H.E. Raylene Siale Tagaloa Liufalani success in fulfilling her mission as New Zealand’s Ambassador to Cambodia.

By C. Nika