Phnom Penh: Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, welcomed H.E. Anatoly Borovik, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Cambodia, at the NA Palace this morning.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during the meeting, Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed gratitude to Russia for its support to Cambodia, particularly after the Khmer Rouge regime’s fall. She acknowledged Russia as a steadfast ally, illustrating this sentiment with the proverb, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.”

Samdech Khuon Sudary underscored the significance of human resource development, noting that over 8,000 Cambodian students have been educated in Russia. She proposed an increase in scholarships for General-Secretariat officials, aiming to bolster educational cooperation between the two nations.

In addition, she extended an invitation to the Chairman of the State Duma to visit Cambodia in 2025 or 2026. Ambassador Borovik emphasized the enduring friendship between Cambodia and Russia, which has survived various historical changes, and highlighted the upcoming 69th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Ambassador Borovik shared insights from his experience in Cambodia, having witnessed its transformation across different political eras. He praised the collaboration between the State Duma and Cambodia’s National Assembly and noted that a visit from the State Duma’s Chairman could facilitate the signing of MoUs and agreements, enhancing legislative and expert-level cooperation.

The discussion also included a commitment to establishing direct flights from Russia to Cambodia’s Techo International Airport to improve connectivity and promote tourism and business exchanges. Ambassador Borovik mentioned that over 70,000 Russian tourists recently visited Cambodia and that Russia is considering direct flights to further encourage tourism and connectivity.