AKP Phnom Penh, July 16, 2025 -- The Governments of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste will build strong partnership, advance together as least developed countries (LDCs), and continue sharing experiences for mutual development.

The remarks were made by Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, when he received visiting H.E. Ms. Maria Fernanda Lay, President of the National Parliament of Timor-Leste, at the Senate Palace in Phnom Penh this afternoon, on the sidelines of the 16th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Caucus, hosted by Cambodia.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen highlighted Cambodia’s strengths in food security and noted Timor-Leste’s potential in energy security, saying that these areas of expertise could complement one another.

He also expressed confidence in Timor-Leste that will become a full member of ASEAN in October this year. With great anticipation since 2011, he continued, the country has made significant progress in various areas, including human resources. 

Samdech Techo reiterated that the inclusion of new ASEAN members should not be seen as a burden, but as a contribution that strengthens the bloc. He emphasised the importance of unity among ASEAN member states in order to foster regional development.

For her part, H.E. Ms. Maria Fernanda Lay said this visit marked her first time in Cambodia. She praised the opportunity to engage in discussions and exchange experiences, noting that the similarities between the two countries’ histories and challenges offer valuable lessons for Timor-Leste.

She expressed hope that as ASEAN “brothers,” Cambodia and Timor-Leste would continue their journey together, through which Timor-Leste can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

By C. Nika