PHNOM PENH: A US congressional delegation has pledged stronger support for efforts to expand cooperation between Cambodia and the US, while reaffirming Washington’s support for mine and unexploded ordnance clearance operations in Cambodia.
The commitment was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Hun Manet and a US congressional delegation led by California Democrat Jimmy Panetta, at the Peace Palace on Aug 27.
The delegation also included Indiana Republican Jim Baird, Texas Democrat Julie Johnson and Michigan Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet.
The US lawmakers praised Cambodia’s rapid development and expressed satisfaction with positive progress in bilateral relations and cooperation in key areas including trade and investment, security, mine and unexploded ordnance clearance, and healthcare.
“The visit provided an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the practical potential and connections between the two countries,” said a delegation statement.
“Members of the US Congress will continue to make every effort to promote and support the US government in advancing cooperation between the two countries so that it becomes broader and more developed,” it added.
The delegation also reiterated continued US support for the kingdom’s demining efforts.
Manet reaffirmed the Cambodian government’s commitment to strengthening and expanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
“The two countries still have many more opportunities and areas of potential where they can complement each other,” he said.
The prime minister highlighted growth in bilateral trade and foreign investment in Cambodia, as well as efforts to strengthen economic resilience and build Cambodia’s capacity in key sectors including textiles and agriculture.
He also stressed the importance of promoting the processing of finished products to increase exports to international markets.
Manet and the congressional delegation also exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in healthcare, security and defence.
The prime minister thanked the US for its continued support for mine and unexploded ordnance clearance in Cambodia.
He also expressed his appreciation to US President Donald Trump and the US government for helping facilitate the ceasefire and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement reached on October 26, 2025.
Manet also briefed the delegation on the latest developments along the Cambodia-Thailand border.
On the sensitive border issue, Hun Manet stressed Cambodia’s commitment to resolving the dispute peacefully, based on international law and in accordance with existing conventions, treaties and agreements between the two countries. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
