Phnom Penh: Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. SOK Chenda Sophea received a courtesy call from Mr. David Verbiwski, Chargé d’Affaires of the Office of the Embassy of Canada in Phnom Penh.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Chenda Sophea and Chargé d’Affaires David discussed various bilateral issues and expressed satisfaction with the development of relations between Cambodia and Canada. Notably, they highlighted Canada’s decision to upgrade its office in Phnom Penh to a full-fledged embassy, a decision made following discussions between Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Vientiane, Lao PDR in October.

H.E. Chenda Sophea emphasized that upgrading Canada’s diplomatic representation would mark a significant milestone in bilateral relations, creating favorable conditions for further cooperation. He assured the Chargé d’Affaires of fu
ll support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in this process.

During the meeting, Mr. David also discussed Canada’s plans to send a Team Canada Trade Mission to Cambodia in 2025 to explore trade opportunities. He congratulated Cambodia on being selected as the host for the 2026 Francophonie Summit and expressed Canada’s commitment to cooperating with Cambodia in preparations, underscoring their shared values and partnership within the Francophonie community.