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During the week of October 21-27, Cambodia saw significant events that attracted both national and international attention. From royal celebrations to diplomatic visits, including economic initiatives and societal concerns, this period revealed the current issues facing the country. Here is an overview of the highlights that punctuated these days of Cambodian news.
Between October 21 and 27, Cambodia experienced a week full of significant events, ranging from preparations for King Norodom Sihamoni’s birthday to crucial diplomatic discussions with several international actors. This week’s highlights reflect political tensions, economic efforts and cultural initiatives. Let’s take a closer look at what happened in the land of temples between these specific dates.
Royal Celebrations Approaching
THE October 29 will mark a significant event in Cambodia: the birthday of King Norodom Sihamoni. As this date approaches, preparations are well underway. THE October 26, workers were spotted setting up the stage for the festivities, which will span three days of events. The celebrations will begin on October 28, accompanied by religious ceremonies and official blessings at the Royal Palace. A large public gathering is planned for October 30, followed by brilliant fireworks each evening.
Diplomatic Visit to France
In another register, the French minister Christian Lechervy stopped in Cambodia to discuss French concerns regarding the situation in Burma. During his visit, he met with senior Cambodian officials, including the President of the Senate, Hun Sen, and Deputy Prime Minister, Sok Chenda Sophea. This dialogue made it possible to discuss the efforts of Cambodia and theASEAN to manage the Burmese crisis.
Strengthening Ties with Thailand
The Cambodian Prime Minister, Hun Manet, held discussions with his Thai counterpart, Anutin Charnvirakul, at Phnom Penh. These talks focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in crucial areas such as security and the fight against crime. The two leaders also discussed the opening of new border crossings, including that of Stung Bot-Ban Nong Ian, to promote trade and tourism between the two nations.
Commemoration of the Peace Accords
THE October 23 was a significant date for Cambodia, commemorating the 33rd anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords, which ended years of civil war. The king and Hun Sen stressed the importance of this agreement, recalling the efforts of the king-father Norodom Sihanouk for peace and national unity. Hun Sen highlighted his “win-win” policy, which helped restore peace in 1998.
Warning Against Grave Robbery
Cambodian authorities have issued a stern warning to grave robbers who continue to operate in Oddar Meanchey. Despite efforts to raise awareness among the population, these illegal actions persist, and the government recalls that the looting of cultural heritage is a serious offense, punishable by severe sanctions.
Accusations of Human Trafficking
The Ministry of the Interior has reacted to recent accusations concerning practices of human trafficking and forced labor. Cambodian authorities strongly denied the allegations, saying they were based on inaccurate information. They also claimed to have set up a national committee to fight against trafficking, as well as repression operations across the country.
Economy and Tourism: Challenges and Prospects
In economic matters, Cambodia has maintained a constant number of 3.5 million tourists between January and August 2024, a pace which does not allow us to return to the level before the pandemic. On the scale ofASEAN, the trend is similar, with a less dense influx of Chinese tourists. At the same time, the government announced new tax measures to support sectors affected by the global crisis, but these decisions could unbalance the national budget.
Cultural and Gastronomic Events
Cambodia has also been the scene of cultural events, such as the Cambodia-China Gastronomy Week which attracted cooking enthusiasts to Siem Reap. This event allowed people to discover the richness of Cambodian and Chinese cuisines through more than 100 stands. Tourism Minister Huot Hak emphasized the importance of gastronomy for the development of the tourism sector.
This week was also distinguished by the organization of the broadcast ceremony of the 3rd ASEAN Public Toilet Competition Movement, aimed at improving sanitation facilities in the region. This event highlights the efforts made to combine cleanliness with tourism objectives.
Commitment to Climate Change
THE Climate Change Forum 2024 held on to Sihanoukville, where the government reaffirmed its commitment to tackling environmental challenges. Initiatives such as a national reforestation campaign and the reduction of plastic waste are being highlighted, supported by countries like UNITED STATES and theAustralia.
Cambodia has much to offer, both economically and culturally, and the coming weeks promise to be just as exciting for observing the evolution of this dynamic country.
Frequently Asked Questions on Cambodian news from October 21 to 27
What celebrations are planned for King Norodom Sihamoni’s birthday? The country will celebrate the king’s birthday on October 29 with three days of events, including festivities on the 28th and religious ceremonies on the 29th, culminating with a large public gathering on the 30th and fireworks each evening.
Who visited Cambodia to discuss the situation in Burma? Mr. Christian Lechervy, Special Envoy for Burma, made a visit to express French concerns about the political and humanitarian situation in Burma, where he met several Cambodian dignitaries.
What subjects were discussed during the meeting between Hun Manet and Anutin Charnvirakul? They discussed bilateral cooperation in key areas such as defense, security, the fight against cross-border crime and the opening of new border crossings to boost trade.
Why is October 23 important for Cambodia? This date marks the 33rd anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords, which ended the civil war. Figures such as the King and Hun Sen have highlighted its historical importance.
What international event will Cambodia host at the end of November? Cambodia will host the Siem Reap-Angkor Mine-Free World Summit, which will bring together nearly 200 countries to discuss the elimination of anti-personnel mines.
What actions are being taken against grave robbing in Cambodia? The authorities issue a warning against grave robbers in the province of Oddar Meanchey, recalling that these acts are punishable by severe criminal penalties.
What steps has the Interior Ministry taken in response to accusations of human trafficking? The ministry rejected these accusations, calling them inaccurate, and claims to have set up a national committee to fight against this scourge.
What is the state of tourism in Cambodia between January and August 2024? The country welcomed 3.5 million tourists, showing stability compared to the previous year, despite a decline compared to pre-pandemic levels.
How is the Cambodian government supporting the struggling economy? Tax relief is proposed, including tax reductions in various sectors, although this will result in lower tax revenues.
What type of initiatives is Cambodia putting in place for water resources management? The government is investing in modern irrigation systems and dams to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.
What are the objectives of the model tourist village in Cambodia? This initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism, diversify the tourist offer and support local economic development.
What gastronomic event was held in Siem Reap? Cambodia-China Food Week was celebrated, featuring dishes from both countries, attracting many visitors.
What competition has been launched for public toilets in ASEAN? The Ministry of Tourism has launched the 3rd ASEAN Public Toilet Competition Movement 2025-2026 to encourage quality sanitation facilities across the region.
What exhibition was organized to celebrate King Norodom Sihamoni? A portrait exhibition was held to mark the 20th anniversary of his coronation, honoring his devotion to the Cambodian people.