India and Cambodia Deepen Bilateral Cooperation
Phnom Penh [Cambodia], March 24 (ANI) – Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), P. Kumaran, recently concluded a series of meetings in Cambodia, reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening ties across multiple sectors. The visit underscored the enduring cultural and civilizational links between the two nations, with a particular focus on heritage preservation and development cooperation.
High-Level Meetings and Discussions
Kumaran engaged in discussions with key Cambodian officials, including Prak Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Dr. UN Kheang, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation and exploring avenues to further strengthen India-Cambodia relations [1].
He also met with Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts of Cambodia, where conversations focused on ongoing heritage conservation projects and broader cultural cooperation initiatives [1]. These discussions highlight the importance both countries place on preserving their shared cultural heritage.
India’s Role in Heritage Conservation
A significant aspect of Kumaran’s visit involved recognizing India’s long-standing commitment to the restoration of Cambodia’s iconic temples. He visited both Ta Prohm Temple and Angkor Wat Temple in Siem Reap, where the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is actively involved in restoration and conservation efforts [1], [3].
India was the first country to extend support for the restoration of Angkor Wat, beginning in 1986 and continuing until 1993 [3]. Two phases of restoration at Ta Prohm Temple have already been successfully completed, with the third phase currently underway [1].
Strengthening Development Cooperation and People-to-People Ties
Kumaran also interacted with alumni of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programs in Cambodia. He reiterated India’s dedication to deepening development cooperation between the two countries [1].
The visit, coming after previous high-level engagements, reflects the continuing commitment of both nations to strengthen ties through cultural preservation, tourism, and heritage cooperation. It also reinforces the importance of civilizational bonds in the context of diplomatic relations within the Indo-Pacific region [3].
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