Message from the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to Japan

Dear friends,

Welcome to the new Website of the ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC). In the capacity of the Ambassador of Cambodia to Japan, I am delighted to express my sincere appreciation for the affiliation between ASEAN and Japan, which exist in an environment of friendship, spirit of cooperation, non-interference policy in internal affairs and mutual respect.

Since 1999 the People of Cambodia truly enjoys in history a real environment of peace, political and economical stability, rule of law, democracy and respect of human rights. A comprehensive agenda is being implemented by the Royal Government in spite of many on-going challenges. From a central planned economy to a free market system, Cambodia's accession to the World Trade Organization in October 2004 is a testimony of how far the nation has progressed.

Cambodia's past achievement and positive performance serve to highlight many opportunities which can attract more private investment, so that the country can gain from its potentials in agriculture, labor intensive industry, processing industry, tourism and service sectors.

Since its inception in May 1981 with six members originally, namely Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, followed by accession of the other countries, including Cambodia in 2001 after becoming ASEAN member in April 30, 1999, the Centre has been maintaining close contact with the ASEAN member countries and stronger ties between Japan and ASEAN countries have been further strengthening.

A number of activities such as socio-cultural events, exhibitions, trade and tourism fairs, seminars and missions were successfully achieved due to the close cooperation between the Centre, Embassies and relevant authorities. One of such interesting events was the Cambodian Investment Seminar organized by the ASEAN-Japan Centre and the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in November 2006, aimed to introduce Cambodia to Japanese community in the area of trade and investment.

In conclusion, I would like to reiterate the importance of ASEAN-Japan relations and I am confident that ASEAN-Japan Centre will continue to play a vital role in deepening the economic cooperation through trade, investment and tourism.
Thank you,

June 2009