In a strategic move to enhance economic, trade, and tourism relations, Senate President Hun Sen and Philippine Ambassador Flerida Ann Camille P. Mayo have agreed to reinstate direct flights between Cebu and Siem Reap – resulting in Prime Minister Dr. Hun Manet agreeing to move forward with the plan.
This decision emerged from a diplomatic meeting that underscored the commitment of both nations to deepen their bilateral cooperation and explore new opportunities for mutual growth.
Diplomatic Engagement and Commitments
On Tuesday, Ambassador Mayo led a delegation to meet Prime Minister Dr. Hun Manet, and Senate President Hun Sen, where both leaders discussed various aspects of strengthening bilateral relations.
The Prime Minister congratulated Mayo on her new role and emphasized the long-standing diplomatic ties between Cambodia and the Philippines. He expressed optimism that under Mayo’s leadership, the two countries would further enhance their collaboration in key sectors.
Expanding Economic and Trade Relations
During the meeting, Prime Minister Dr. Hun Manet and Ambassador Mayo identified several areas for potential cooperation:
Trade Volume Increase: Both nations are keen on increasing their trade volume, focusing on boosting the export of agricultural products.
Investment Opportunities: Discussions included encouraging more Filipino investments in Cambodia, particularly in the food processing, health, and education sectors.
Economic Partnerships: The leaders highlighted the significance of leveraging the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (AFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to maximize economic potential..
Reconnecting Direct Flights to Boost Tourism
A key highlight of the discussions was the plan to reconnect direct flights from Cebu to Siem Reap. This initiative aims to:
- Enhance Tourist Flow: By making travel more convenient, the direct flights are expected to increase the number of tourists between the two countries, promoting cultural exchange and tourism growth. After all Angkor Wat is now considered the 8th wonder of the world and Cebu is a travel hub to some of the most incredible beaches on the planet with exceptional diving and local culture
- Western Tourism: This move won’t only strengthen tourism between Cambodians and Fillipinos, it will most certainly increase the amount of western tourists that visit both countries – as long as the airlines don’t get greedy.
- Strengthen Tourism Ties: Building on the existing direct flights between Manila and Phnom Penh, this new route will further solidify tourism relations and open new avenues for joint tourism initiatives.
Joint Initiatives in Education and Construction
Another focus of the meeting was the development of education and construction sectors. Both leaders discussed:
Educational Collaboration: Exploring opportunities for educational exchange programs and partnerships between Cambodian and Filipino institutions. Easier travel means easier collaboration, especially if the prices are fair and the airlines are willing to keep those prices low enough for citizens of both countries to be able to access flights.
Construction Projects: Joint ventures in the construction industry to support infrastructure development in both countries.
Upcoming Bilateral Cooperation Meeting
The diplomatic engagement also included preparations for the Fourth Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting scheduled for August in Manila. This meeting will:
- Explore Further Cooperation: Aim to elevate Cambodia-Philippines relations by identifying new areas for collaboration and enhancing existing partnerships.
- Strategic Discussions: Cover various topics including trade, investment, tourism, defense, and cybersecurity
Historical Context and Ongoing Efforts
The relationship between Cambodia and the Philippines has seen significant milestones over the years. Notably, in 2020, both countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost tourism despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. This MoU included plans for more direct flights, which are now being realized with the Cebu-Siem Reap route.
The Wrap Up
The recent discussions between Prime Minister Dr. Hun Manet, Senate President Hun Sen and Ambassador Flerida Ann Camille P. Mayo signifies a promising step towards a stronger partnership between Cambodia and the Philippines.
By focusing on economic interaction, tourism, education, and construction, both nations are poised to achieve greater collaboration and mutual benefits. The forthcoming JCBC meeting in Manila will further cement these efforts, ensuring the relationship continues to thrive and bring prosperity to both countries.
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