Singapore and Cambodia are deepening cooperation in renewable energy, carbon markets, agricultural trade, and regional integration, reaffirming their commitment to shared development and Asean unity.
This was emphasized by Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during a toast speech on July 2 at an official lunch hosted by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at Phnom Penh’s Peace Palace. The visit marks Wong’s eighth stop in his introductory tour of Asean countries.
“In a world marked by uncertainty, Asean must remain united, maintain open dialogue, and resolve disputes peacefully to safeguard its relevance and pursue common goals,” PM Wong said.
The leaders identified key areas of collaboration, such as importing low-carbon electricity from Cambodia to Singapore and developing a carbon credit agreement to support clean energy, benefit rural communities, and help both countries meet net-zero targets.
On agriculture, Wong acknowledged Cambodia as a major food exporter and highlighted Singapore’s interest in diversifying its food sources, stating that enhanced trade would be mutually advantageous.
Celebrating Six Decades of Ties
PM Wong also reflected on the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Cambodia, noting that Cambodia was among the first countries to recognize Singapore’s sovereignty and host its overseas missions. He credited the strong foundation laid by founding leaders Lee Kuan Yew and King-Father Norodom Sihanouk for the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who took office in August 2023, made his first official visit to Singapore in June last year.
Singapore is now one of Cambodia’s top investors and trade partners, ranking third among foreign investors in 2023, with bilateral trade growing 7.1% year-on-year to reach S$4.83 billion. These investments span multiple sectors, including real estate, energy, food, agribusiness, consumer goods, education, and finance.
Commitment to Human Development
Describing both countries as strong partners in human development, PM Wong highlighted Singapore’s ongoing training support for nearly 19,000 Cambodian officials in areas such as public health and digital governance.
He praised Cambodia’s “ambitious” vision of becoming a high-income nation by 2050 and noted the country’s remarkable transformation. “Singapore will remain a committed partner in Cambodia’s journey of growth and progress,” he affirmed.
