Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc visited Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni right after his arrival in the country on April 24^th, beginning his two-day official visit to Cambodia at the invitation of his Cambodian counterpart Samdech Techo Hun Sen.

This is the first official trip of PM Phuc to the neighbouring country in the post of the Government leader of Vietnam.

At the meeting, PM Phuc expressed his pleasure to make his official visit to Cambodia when the two countries are celebrating the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

He lauded socio-economic achievements Cambodia has made under the reign of King Norodom Sihamoni, particularly its increasing position in the region and in the world.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) shakes hands with King of Cambodia Norodom Sihamoni on April 24^th. (Photo: VNA)

Highlighting the King’s significant contributions to consolidating the partnership between Vietnam and Cambodia, PM Phuc said he hopes for the King’s further support for the ties.

Vietnam always attaches importance to the traditional friendship and comprehensive partnership with Cambodia, he said, adding that Vietnam continuously remembers the King’s valuable assistance to Vietnam during its national construction and defence.

King Norodom Sihamoni said he admires achievements Vietnam has obtained during its national development and recalled the late King Norodom Sihanouk’s recommendations on cementing relations with Vietnam.

He spoke highly of his guest’s current visit, saying he believes that it will contribute to further enhancing bilateral cooperation.

PM Phuc took the occasion to deliver an invitation to visit Vietnam to his host and Queen Mother of Cambodia Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, which was accepted.

The same day, the PM visited the Vietnamese Embassy staff and representatives of Vietnamese expatriates living and studying in Cambodia.

Acknowledging their contributions to Vietnam-Cambodia relations and difficulties in the host nation, Phuc affirmed the commitment of the Vietnamese Party and Government to assisting overseas Vietnamese.

He urged them to continue to cement the two countries’ relationship and expand the education of the Vietnamese language within their community.