Monday, 1 December 2008

Chinese delegation highlights security

The Phnom Penh Post

Written by Vong Sokheng
Monday, 01 December 2008

A HIGH-RANKING Chinese security delegation led by Minister of Public Security Meng Jianzhu arrived Sunday in Cambodia for talks with Ministry of Interior officials, pledging to strengthen bilateral cooperation on the issues of terrorism, drug and human trafficking, and illegal immigration.

Minister of Interior Sar Kheng said Cambodia and China signed a Memorandum of Understanding during Sunday's half-day meeting, aiming to strengthen cooperation on security-related issues.

"We are very proud for your visit today, which can help build up our old friendship," Sar Kheng said in his formal address to the delegation.

He added that the Chinese government had also promised to donate US$300,000 to upgrade police equipment and boost human resources in the security sector. "This is not the first time we have cooperated, and we will step towards closer cooperation [in future]," Sar Kheng said.

A strong relationship

Last week, the Chinese government donated 33 ambulances, seven minibuses, one bus, three cars, one excavator and other materials to Cambodia's Ministry of Defence.

Cheam Yeap, lawmaker of the ruling Cambodian People's Party, said that Cambodia is scheduled to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its diplomatic ties with China in early December by hosting another delegation of senior Chinese officials, including National Committee Chairman Jia Qingling, from Tuesday to Saturday.

"The visit of the most senior Chinese government officials will help to improve stronger diplomatic ties between Cambodia and China," he said.

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