Phnom Penh, 10 February 2025 – Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, granted a courtesy call on Monday to H.E. Mr. Anatoly Borovik, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Cambodia, at the National Assembly palace.

During the meeting, Samdech Khuon Sudary thanked the government and the people of Russia for their valuable support to Cambodia, especially during the difficult times after the liberation from the Khmer Rouge regime. She considers Russia one of Cambodia's best friends, embodying the saying, "A friend in need is a friend indeed."

Ambassador Borovik emphasized the longstanding and trustworthy friendship between Cambodia and Russia, which has endured through various historical periods.

He also mentioned the upcoming 69th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Russia. He shared his experiences of living in and witnessing Cambodia's evolution through three generations, including the Republic Socialist of Cambodia, the State of Cambodia, and the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Ambassador Borovik noted and appreciated Cambodia's participation in the ASEAN-related events hosted by Russia in 2024, including the 4th Eurasian Women’s Forum. He also mentioned the involvement of Cambodian observers, including H.E. Mr. Nim Chandara and H.E. Mr. Ty Sokun, in the recent elections in Russia.

Samdech emphasized the importance of human resource development, noting that Russia has educated over 8,000 Cambodian students. She also proposed the expansion of scholarships provided by Russia to General-Secretariat officials, further strengthening the educational ties between the two nations.

Ambassador Borovik also mentioned the cooperation between the State Duma and the National Assembly of Cambodia. The exchange visits of the Chairman of the State Duma to Cambodia will provide an opportunity to sign MoUs and agreements between both legislative bodies, Parliamentary Friendship Groups, and at the expert level among the commissions of the National Assembly of Cambodia. Samdech Khuon Sudary conveyed an invitation to the Chairman of the State Duma to visit Cambodia at a convenient time in 2025 or 2026.

Additionally, Samdech Khuon Sudary suggested the establishment of direct flights from Russia to the newly opened Techo International Airport to enhance connectivity and support tourism and business exchanges between the two countries.

Ambassador Borovik highlighted that over 70,000 Russian tourists visited Cambodia recently and mentioned that Russia will consider establishing direct flights to Cambodia in the future to further boost tourism and connectivity.