AKP Phnom Penh, August 28, 2025 —

The U.S. Embassy in Cambodia is celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the Kingdom during a week-long programme in Sihanoukville of Preah Sihanouk province.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Bridgette Walker is leading a delegation of American diplomats and embassy staff in a series of events under the theme “Embassy Week in Sihanoukville 2025: 75 Years of Partnership and Friendship,” which runs from Aug. 26 to 30.

The initiative focuses on promoting economic growth, public health, security, cultural preservation, and youth engagement. 

According to a U.S. Embassy’s press release, the events underscore the shared values that have defined the relationship between the two nations.

During the visit, Ms. Walker and representatives from six U.S. government agencies met with Preah Sihanouk Provincial Governor Mang Sineth to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral ties and economic cooperation. The delegation also unveiled a new sign on National Highway 4, a key infrastructure project built by the U.S. in 1959 that connects the Sihanoukville port to other regions of Cambodia.

“This significant event reflects the strength of the relationship between the United States and Cambodia and our shared commitment to building a brighter future together,” she said. 

“Embassy Week in Sihanoukville demonstrates our dedication to fostering meaningful connections across the Kingdom of Cambodia and creating mutually beneficial opportunities for both nations.”

Key activities during the week included: The embassy facilitated connections between American and Cambodian business leaders to boost economic opportunities; Officials provided capacity-building training for Preah Sihanouk’s security personnel and visited a U.S.-funded HIV treatment hospital to enhance public safety and health. 

Ms. Walker met with local youth to discuss U.S.-supported opportunities, including English language and exchange programmes, and provided accurate information on visa application procedures. 

She also announced the winners of an English-language essay competition for local high school and university students on the future of U.S.-Cambodia relations.

The embassy is scheduled to screen the documentary “Loot: A Story of Crime and Redemption,” which highlights the U.S.' role in helping repatriate sacred Khmer artifacts on Aug. 29.

The event included a panel discussion with officials from the U.S. Embassy and Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, as well as the documentary’s co-writer and editor.

The celebration reaffirms the United States’ commitment to Cambodia’s development and prosperity, while also celebrating the long history of cooperation between the two countries.

By K. Rithy Reak