Phnom penh: As the United States looks toward the future of its partnership with Cambodia, it sees a relationship that is evolving and maturing, U.S. Charg© d’Affaires Bridgette Walker stated during a reception marking the 249th anniversary of American Independence, held on July 3 evening at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Ms. Walker emphasized that both countries have benefited from strengthened people-to-people ties through tourism, education, sports, and business connections that promote cultural exchange, skills development, and entrepreneurship, especially among youth. ‘The 75th anniversary of our diplomatic relations stands as clear testimony to the enduring friendship between the United States and Cambodia,’ she added, reaffirming the shared commitment to building a prosperous, peaceful, and mutually beneficial future.
Ms. Walker noted that Independence Day is a time when Americans gather with family and friends to honor the legacy of their forebears and to continue striving toward progress that demonstrates the nation’s leadership and innovation. She highlighted the essential role of diplomacy in advancing American ideas while engaging with nations and peoples worldwide, not only to protect interests but also to uphold values. ‘We always choose partners based on equality of opportunity and a commitment to transparency and fairness,’ she said.
On behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) highlighted that this year’s joint celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties underscores the strong, evolving partnership between Cambodia and the U.S., founded on mutual respect and cooperation. He noted that over the decades, bilateral relations have expanded across trade and investment, defense cooperation, education, cultural preservation, and deepening people-to-people connections.
He recalled the early 2025 ceremony at the National Museum marking the 75th anniversary, which also featured the return of invaluable Khmer sculptures to Cambodia-a symbol of shared commitment to preserving cultural heritage. Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol highlighted Cambodia’s readiness to further strengthen the partnership, citing upcoming high-level visits, including the anticipated visit of the U.S. Secretary of State and a delegation of U.S. Congress members in August, following successful visits earlier this year.
He also underscored Cambodia’s role as ASEAN-U.S. Dialogue Relations Coordinator until 2027, noting the opportunity to deepen cooperation not only bilaterally but also within the ASEAN-U.S. strategic partnership. ‘Cambodia remains a sincere and trusted partner of the U.S., and we are confident that the friendship between our two countries will continue to thrive with strategic direction and significance,’ he affirmed.
The event also featured a performance by the U.S. Air Force Band, ‘Pacific Brass,’ in collaboration with the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces Honor Guard Band, symbolizing decades of friendship and shared aspirations between the peoples of the U.S. and Cambodia.