The key facts

  • The first-ever visit of a Cambodian prime minister to Kazakhstan took place on October 17 in Astana
  • A joint statement was adopted and six bilateral documents were exchanged
  • Hun Manet noted that more than 120 Cambodian students had studied in Kazakhstan

Historic Visit and Talks in Astana

President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Astana on October 17 (Saturday). This is the first visit of the head of the Cambodian government to Kazakhstan. According to the press service of the Kazakh president, Tokayev stated that the visit will open a new chapter in bilateral relations and will allow common goals to be translated into practical cooperation. “I believe your visit has historic significance, as no prime minister of Cambodia has previously visited Kazakhstan,” he said, calling Cambodia a reliable partner in Southeast Asia and an important link in expanding Kazakhstan's partnership with ASEAN countries.

Education, Trade and Documents

Hun Manet, for his part, emphasized cultural and educational ties: according to him, more than 120 Cambodian students studied in Kazakhstan, many of whom now hold high positions in the government, including provincial governors, secretaries of state, and ministry staff. He also noted Cambodia's interest in expanding cooperation in food security, agriculture, and industry. Both leaders expressed confidence that the talks will contribute to the growth of bilateral trade, the strengthening of business ties, and the emergence of new opportunities for cooperation. Following the meeting, Tokayev and Hun Manet adopted a joint statement and witnessed the exchange of six bilateral documents covering digital government and information technology, trade, culture, tourism, as well as ties between Astana and Phnom Penh.