Phnom Penh: Cambodia and Australia have discussed their partnership and agreed to continue their cooperation in agricultural development for mutual benefits. The agreement was made between H.E. Dith Tina, Cambodian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and H.E. Derek Yip, Australian Ambassador to Cambodia, during their meeting here at the ministry late last week. On the occasion, H.E. Dith Tina thanked the Australia side for its continued support for the development of Cambodia’s agricultural field, and spoke highly of the good cooperation between the two countries in the rice sector through releasing a new fragrant rice variety, Champei Sar 70. Both sides also highlighted the importance of Cambodia for the Australian beef market. H.E. Minister and H.E. Ambassador emphasised their readiness to work together for the two nations’ mutual interest in the area of agriculture.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Australia has been a trusted partner in Cambodia’s agricultural journey for over 60 years, particularly in enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of the rice sector. Australia is committed to supporting Cambodia’s agricultural growth through programmes such as the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and the Cambodia-Australia Partnership for Resilient Economic Development (CAPRED), it added. These initiatives focus on adding value to Cambodia’s agricultural products, unlocking trade and investment opportunities, and building a sustainable future for its agri-food sector, underlined the source.