AKP Phnom Penh, September 19, 2025 -- Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of Cambodia, has expressed gratitude to UNESCO for its contribution to Cambodia’s development, particularly in safeguarding humanity’s heritage and strengthening the education sector.

H.E. Chea Thirith, Spokesperson for the Senate, conveyed the message following a farewell meeting this morning at the Senate Palace between Samdech Techo Hun Sen and outgoing UNESCO Representative in Cambodia, H.E. Sardar Umar Alam.

The Acting Head of State underlined that in recent years many of Cambodia’s heritage properties, both tangible and intangible, have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This achievement, he noted, reflects the fruitful cooperation between Cambodia and UNESCO as well as the organisation’s indispensable role in supporting the Kingdom’s efforts to protect and promote its cultural heritage.

For his part, H.E. Sardar Umar Alam thanked Samdech Techo for his strong support of UNESCO’s activities during his tenure as Prime Minister, which further strengthened cooperation between UNESCO and the Royal Government of Cambodia.

The outgoing representative also expressed appreciation for the Royal Government’s care and concern for the staff of international organisations, including UNESCO, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

After his mission in Cambodia, H.E. Sardar Umar Alam will serve as Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for the Pacific States.

By C. Nika