Cambodia and Cuba Celebrate 65 Years of Diplomatic Relations with Photo Exhibition

Phnom penh: Cambodia's state-run Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP) and the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Cambodia have jointly organised a Photo Exhibition to celebrate the 65th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the two nations. The event, held on Tuesday afternoon at the Ministry of Information, was presided over by H.E. Mr. Neth Pheaktra, Minister for Information, and H.E. Mrs. Milena Caridad Zaldívar Piedra, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Cuba to Cambodia, with the participation from the National Assembly, Ministries-Institutions, diplomatic corps, relevant national and international institutions, with a total of 200 distinguished guests. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Neth Pheaktra addressed the event by recalling the long-standing friendship between Cambodia and Cuba, appreciating Cuba's support to Cambodia, especially in healthcare and human resource development, which has been instrumental in the country's reconstruction and progress. He highlighted that both co untries share ideals of independence, justice, and international solidarity, which have been the foundation of their partnership for over six decades, adapting to challenges and opportunities in line with their aspirations. H.E. Minister also emphasized the significance of the Photo Exhibition, noting that it showcases achievements and major events in the history of Cambodian-Cuban relations. The photographs, he stated, not only reflect past events but also serve as evidence of a steadily growing friendship and cooperation. He reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to strengthening and expanding relations with Cuba, particularly in combating cross-border fake news amid advancing digital technology and artificial intelligence. Cuban Ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Mrs. Milena Caridad Zaldívar Piedra, expressed that Cuba and Cambodia have maintained a special relationship for over 65 years, founded on shared principles, mutual respect, and understanding. She described the photographic exhibition as a reflection of the resilient ties that have withstood historical contexts and geopolitical dynamics, projecting them into the future. The Ambassador affirmed Cuba's readiness to deepen cooperation in trade, tourism, investment, academic collaboration, and medical training within their promising diplomatic relationship. She highlighted the Cuban government's commitment to strengthening cultural ties, bringing the peoples and their realities closer together. During the exhibition, participants viewed a variety of photos depicting leaders from both nations, cultural exchanges, and cooperation in multiple sectors. Among the 31 photographs displayed was one of Samdech Techo Hun Sen's visit to Cuba in 1999, where he received the Order of José Martí, Cuba's highest state decoration. Notable visits include Samdech Techo's return to Cuba in 2022 and the visit of H.E. Manuel Marrero Cruz, Prime Minister of Cuba, to Cambodia in October the same year. Cambodia and Cuba established diplomatic relations on April 15, 1960, under the initi ative of His Majesty King Father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk and Cuban Revolution leader, Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz.