AKP Phnom Penh, August 17, 2026 --

Senior Minister H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch has reaffirmed that relations between Cambodia and Singapore are rooted in a strong history of mutual respect and bilateral support.

H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, who serves as First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, made the remarks during an event celebrating the 61st anniversary of Singapore’s National Day, organised by the Singapore Club Cambodia on Sunday afternoon. The event was attended by Singaporean Ambassador to Cambodia H.E. Steven Pang.

The Senior Minister underscored that the close relationship between Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and Singaporean Prime Minister H.E. Lawrence Wong continues to drive bilateral cooperation forward.

He noted that the long-standing alliance has weathered both difficult times and periods of rapid economic growth.

Cambodia was among the first nations to officially recognise Singapore in 1965, while Singapore stood by Cambodia during its national reconstruction efforts in the 1990s.

"As small states sharing similar contexts and challenges, both nations share a common interest in promoting a rules-based international order, upholding international agreements, and resolving disputes peacefully rather than through force," H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch said.

He praised Singapore's resilience as an inspiring model of overcoming adversity. Despite having no crude oil, limited agricultural land, and insufficient freshwater resources at its founding in 1965, Singapore achieved remarkable transformation through discipline, honest leadership, the rule of law, and strong investment in human capital.

"Sixty-one years is a brief period in a nation's history, yet Singapore has used this time remarkably well to achieve extraordinary development," he added.

By K. Rithy Reak