The Philippine and Cambodian governments on Tuesday agreed to further enhance bilateral cooperation, especially on ways to improve the states’ two-way trade and tourism.

The affirmation was made during the visit of Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Chenda Sophea to Manila to co-chair the 4th Philippines-Cambodia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC).

“During the JCBC, the two foreign ministers took note of the deepening of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Cambodia and encouraged the continuing exchanges and interactions of high-level officials, as well as aiming for higher bilateral trade and tourism flows,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

The two ministers agreed to strengthen ties on defense and security, combating transnational crime, culture, and sports, while deepening engagements on health, environment, and energy.

In addition, Manalo and Sophea exchanged views on pressing regional and international issues, such as the situation in the South China Sea, Myanmar and Gaza.

Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to advancing promotion of peace and stability in the region.

“I am optimistic that the strengthening of our bilateral relations will benefit our peoples and the rest of the region. I reaffirm the Philippines’ commitment to remain a steadfast partner of Cambodia and to work closely to promote peace and prosperity in the region,” Manalo said.

According to the DFA, the two states are expected to sign an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation this year.

The Southeast Asian neighbors are expediting the conclusion of agreements on agriculture, labor, technical and vocational education, and the prevention of looting and illicit trafficking of cultural artifacts.

This is the first visit of Sophea to the Philippines and his first official bilateral visit to another ASEAN member state.

Prior to the discussions between the ministers, DFA Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa Lazaro co-chaired the Senior Officials’ Meeting of the JCBC with Secretary of State Ung Rachana of the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The JCBC was established in August 2000 as the formal mechanism between the Philippines and Cambodia to discuss bilateral areas of cooperation and was last held in December 2021. (PNA)