MEA Secretary P. Kumaran Highlights Cultural Ties During Cambodia Visit

Siem Reap, Cambodia – Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, P. Kumaran, recently visited the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation Asian Traditional Textile Museum in Siem Reap, Cambodia, underscoring the shared cultural heritage of the Mekong-Ganga region. The visit took place on Saturday, March 22, 2026, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

Showcasing Regional Heritage

The Mekong-Ganga Cooperation Asian Traditional Textile Museum, the first of its kind in Cambodia, displays rich textile traditions and cultural artifacts from countries participating in the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation framework. This highlights the longstanding cultural and civilizational ties between India and Southeast Asia. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal announced the visit via a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Secretary Kumaran’s visit follows a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening India’s ties with regional partners. Earlier on March 11, 2026, he hosted a farewell dinner for Indonesia’s Ambassador, Ina Krisnamurthi, attended by heads of mission from ASEAN countries. During the dinner, Kumaran thanked Krisnamurthi for her contributions to strengthening India-Indonesia bilateral ties and wished her success in her future endeavors.

Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue with South Korea

In February 2026, Secretary (East) P. Kumaran also undertook an official visit to the Republic of Korea to co-chair the 6th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) with his South Korean counterpart, Park Yoon-joo. Both sides agreed to advance the ‘India-ROK Special Strategic Partnership’ through continued high-level engagements, including upcoming events such as the AI Impact Summit and a Joint Commission Meeting. Discussions also focused on enhancing cooperation in shipbuilding, artificial intelligence, and cultural exchanges.

Mekong-Ganga Cooperation

The Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) is an initiative that brings together India and five Southeast Asian countries – Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam – to promote cooperation in areas such as tourism, culture, education, and water resource management. The MGC aims to foster closer ties and mutual understanding between the regions, recognizing their shared historical and cultural connections.

These diplomatic efforts demonstrate India’s commitment to strengthening its relationships with key partners in the region and promoting cultural understanding and cooperation.