AKP Phnom Penh, October 09, 2025 --  

The Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation this morning issued a clarification regarding the opinion article titled “Why Cambodia Must Never Forget,” published in the Khmer Times on Oct. 7, 2025.

The Spokesperson underlined that the views expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect, in any way, the official position or policy of the Royal Government of Cambodia.

“Cambodia and Japan enjoy a deep-rooted and enduring friendship, underpinned by mutual respect, trust, and shared commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development. Since the restoration of peace in Cambodia, Japan has remained one of the Kingdom's most steadfast and generous partners-providing significant Official Development Assistance (ODA), supporting infrastructure development, human resource training, demining, healthcare, and education,” the spokesperson said. 

He added that the recent elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and the launch of the Japan-Cambodia Economic Co-Creation Package in May 2025 reaffirm the strong and forward-looking nature of this partnership. Both countries are working closely to promote connectivity, green growth, digital transformation, and human capital development in line with Cambodia's Pentagonal Strategy-Phase 1.

While Cambodia acknowledges the importance of understanding history, its policy approach is firmly focused on reconciliation, cooperation, and a shared future. Cambodia's partnership with Japan is guided by the principles of sovereignty, mutual respect, and equality, and stands as a model of constructive bilateral cooperation in the region, he emphasised. 

“The Ministry reiterates that the Royal Government of Cambodia attaches the highest value to its relations with Japan and remains fully committed to further strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for the mutual benefit of both nations and peoples,” concluded the spokesperson. 

By C. Nika