Phnom Penh, 14 January 2025 – Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, received a courtesy call Tuesday from His Excellency Ali Akbar Nazari, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Cambodia.

During the meeting — their first since the Ambassador's accreditation to Cambodia — she welcomed the Iranian diplomat and thanked him for taking the time to visit Phnom Penh from his residence in Hanoi.

Samdech Khuon Sudary conveyed condolences over the tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last year.

She stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between Cambodia and Iran, both rich in natural resources and culture, and said she looked forward to mutually beneficial opportunities contributing to global peace, security, and prosperity.

His Excellency Ambassador Nazari expressed heartfelt congratulations to Samdech Khuon Sudary on her election as National Assembly President, and to Cambodia for achieving annual economic growth of six percent.

He noted the positive achievements of the bilateral relations over the past three decades and expressed a desire to further improve ties, conveying an invitation from the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament to make an official visit to Iran.

Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed gratitude for the invitation and said she would find a mutually convenient time for the visit.

The two noted the challenging and complex global situation, emphasizing the importance of peace, stability, and economic growth. They agreed on the significant roles of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting humanity, addressing current issues, and maintaining peace and aspirations of the people

His Excellency the Ambassador highlighted the painful situation in the Middle East, noting the crucial role of parliamentarians in promoting regional peace.

Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed Cambodia’s deep regret over the violence and conflicts and the need for collective efforts to resolve issues in the region.

“We must work together to address common challenges such as food and energy security” she said.

Samdech Khuon Sudary recalled that Cambodia recently hosted the 11th Plenary Session of the International Parliament for Tolerance and Peace (IPTP), with the adoption of the Phnom Penh Declaration and Universal Peace Charter.

“Cambodia's policies emphasize peace, independance, and peaceful coexistence,” she said. “As a member of the UN, we are committed to protecting and adhering to the UN Charter as well.”

She also said that Cambodia would not have achieved its current level of development without the efforts of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, the former Prime Minister who is now President of the Senate.

Samdech Khuon Sudary wished the Iranian people a prosperous new year and expressed hope for continued friendship and cooperation between the two nations.