Cambodian-Laos Association expands to include border provinces

Ratanakkiri province and Laos have agreed to strengthen and expand the Cambodia-Laos Association to push for better cooperation and relations between the two sides.

The agreement was reached at a meeting on November 19 at the provincial hall between Ratanakkiri provincial governor Nhem Sam Oeun and Lao Ambassador to Cambodia Amphay Kindavong, who is close to the end of his term.

The Ratanakkiri provincial Department of Information said on its Facebook page on November 19 that at the meeting Amphay Kindavong expressed that it was Laos’ intention to strengthen the Cambodia-Laos Association by inducting the Cambodian border provinces as members.

“In response to the proposed strengthening of the Cambodia-Laos Association, His Excellency [Nhem Sam Oeun] expressed his support for this initiative to push for better cooperation and relations,” the Facebook page said.

Nhem Sam Oeun said that although the term of the Lao ambassador is ending soon, the traditionally good relations between Ratanakkiri province and the Laos border provinces would continue normally.

Amphay Kindavong said that despite the Covid-19 crisis, relations between Laos and Cambodia – especially the border provinces – remained cooperative and that both sides endeavored to be good neighbors to each other.

The ambassador also said he believes that Sam Oeun will make positive changes to Ratanakkiri province during his tenure due to his strong leadership skills.

SOURCE: NEWS AGENCIES