Phnom penh: Australia's Minister for International Development, H.E. Dr Anne Aly MP, visited Cambodia on July 30-31, advancing the two countries' enduring partnership.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Minister Aly met Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, H.E. Prak Sokhonn, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, reaffirming Australia's commitment to Cambodia as a steadfast and reliable development partner.
H.E. Dr Anne Aly announced an additional AU$3 million (about US$2.1 million) to support Cambodia's efforts to strengthen its social protection systems to assist vulnerable households facing economic shocks. She also confirmed that Australia's official development assistance to Cambodia in 2026-27 will be an estimated AU$94.4 million.
Minister Aly toured Kirirom Food Production, where Australia is helping local businesses access international markets, create employment opportunities for women, support rural livelihoods, and promote inclusive economic growth.
At the Kampong Speu fishway, she announced a funding of AU$9.5 million (about US$6.65 million) for a new phase of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) FishTech programme, supporting regional economic resilience, food security, and environmental sustainability.
During the visit, she also met Australia Awards alumni and Australian volunteers, reaffirming the deep people-to-people connections between Australia and Cambodia and the commitment to supporting human capital development.
Speaking at the conclusion of her visit, Minister Aly emphasized the strong bilateral partnership's role in delivering tangible benefits for communities across Cambodia. She expressed pride in standing alongside Cambodia as a trusted and longstanding partner and highlighted Australia's commitment to improving livelihoods and supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development.
Minister Aly reaffirmed Australia's dedication to ensuring that its partnership in Cambodia remains responsive and aligned with the nation's priorities and aspirations. She stressed Australia's intention to continue working closely with Cambodia to deliver practical outcomes that improve lives and support a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.