Minister of State for External Affairs Visits Cambodia to Strengthen Development Partnership and Cultural Ties

Phnom Penh / New Delhi : Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita commenced her official visit to Cambodia and Malaysia on July 6, 2025, with a clear focus on enhancing India’s development partnership, cultural bonds, and regional cooperation through ASEAN mechanisms.

Upon her arrival in Phnom Penh, Minister Margherita paid homage to Cambodia’s Father of the Nation and engaged with alumni of India’s ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation) and ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) programs. The interaction included several Cambodian dignitaries and the President of the Cambodia-India Alumni Association, reflecting on decades of academic and people-to-people ties between the two nations.

On July 7, the Minister met with H.E. Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate and former Prime Minister. Both leaders discussed the deepening of India-Cambodia development cooperation, touching upon key areas such as infrastructure, capacity building, health, and digital connectivity.

She was also granted a royal audience with His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, during which she conveyed warm greetings on behalf of the Government and the people of India. Sharing the moment on social media, Minister Margherita expressed her deep honor at the meeting, reaffirming India’s commitment to the enduring friendship based on shared cultural values.

Later that day, the Minister also held discussions with H.E. Hun Manet, the Prime Minister of Cambodia. The dialogue focused on strengthening India-Cambodia’s multifaceted partnership, especially in areas of trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Both sides appreciated the growing momentum in bilateral ties in recent years.

On July 8, the Minister visited the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, where she viewed intricate murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Deeply moved, she noted that the artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the historical and cultural linkages between India and Cambodia. She further announced that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) would take up the task of restoration and conservation of these murals, reinforcing India’s role in heritage diplomacy.

Following her Cambodia visit, Minister Margherita will travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on July 10–11, upon the invitation of the current ASEAN Chair, Malaysia. During her visit, she will participate in the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), engaging with key regional stakeholders on security, connectivity, and sustainable development.

The visit underscores India’s Act East Policy and its ongoing commitment to fostering stronger ties with Southeast Asian nations through cultural cooperation, developmental support, and diplomatic engagement.

(Report by Shashwat Tiwari:)