Citing the Philippines and Cambodia as two of the best performing countries, in terms of economic growth, not only in Asia but at the global stage, Philippine Ambassador Christopher B. Montero underscored the need for stronger bilateral economic ties during his courtesy call on Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Akeak Moha Sena Padey Techo Hun Sen on 17 July at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.

During the call, Ambassador Montero noted the huge potential for broader trade and investment ties between the two countries, especially in light of the unprecedented growth in bilateral trade for 2014, which reached more than $100 million, an increase of more than 400% compared to the trade figures for 2013.

Prime Minister Hun Sen likewise stressed the importance of accelerating bilateral economic exchanges and encouraged Philippine companies to establish greater presence in Cambodia, particularly investments in the rice production chain which will assure food security and benefit both countries. He noted the historical ties between Cambodia and the Philippines, and acknowledged the contributions of Filipinos to the Cambodian economy and society.       

The day before his meeting with Prime Minister Hun Sen, Ambassador Montero paid a courtesy call on Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Hor Namhong, who reaffirmed Cambodia’s friendship and solidarity with the Philippines, especially in the context of ASEAN and in other international fora.

DPM/FM Hor Namhong and Ambassador Montero both expressed commitment to expand bilateral relations, and looked forward to the signing of pending bilateral agreements in the fields of agriculture, tourism, transnational crime and sports. END