AKP Phnom Penh, August 28, 2025 -- Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen is regarded as a hero by the leaders and people of Timor-Leste, affirmed H.E. Marcos dos Reis da Costa, newly appointed Ambassador of Timor-Leste to Cambodia, during a courtesy call on the Cambodian Acting Head of State at the Senate Palace this morning.

On the occasion, H.E. Marcos dos Reis da Costa expressed his delight in undertaking his diplomatic mission in Cambodia and contributing to the strengthening of long-lasting bonds of friendship between the two countries.

The Ambassador extended warm greetings from Timor-Leste’s top leaders to Samdech Techo Hun Sen, and conveyed deep gratitude for his vital support in Timor-Leste’s accession as the 11th member of ASEAN.

He also relayed a request from H.E. Ms. Maria Fernanda Lay, President of Timor-Leste’s National Parliament, to establish an Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group between the two countries.

In response, Samdech Techo Hun Sen welcomed the proposal and instructed the Senate General Secretariat to work with the National Assembly to form the Cambodia–Timor-Leste Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group.

The Acting Head of State congratulated H.E. Marcos dos Reis da Costa on his appointment and thanked Timorese leaders for their warm hospitality during his visit to Timor-Leste in May.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also expressed his willingness to share Cambodia’s practical experiences in peacebuilding—particularly its cooperation with the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC)—as well as its path to ASEAN membership.

“Cambodia’s GDP per capita was about US$298 when the Kingdom became an ASEAN member, while Timor-Leste’s is now around US$1,453. Therefore, Timor-Leste’s ASEAN membership will not be a burden to the bloc,” he underlined.

He further emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, and investment, expressing confidence that Timor-Leste will gain greater opportunities for cooperation as a full ASEAN member.

By L Vy