Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet made a significant visit to the Philippines, marking his first official trip to the country. On February 10, 2025, he attended the Philippine-Cambodia Business Forum held at the Makati Shangri-La in Makati City, emphasizing the need to enhance economic relations between the two nations. The forum served as a platform for business leaders from both countries to explore new avenues for trade and investment.
Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted the forum’s role as a crucial link between Cambodia and the Philippines, fostering an environment where business ideas could flourish and partnerships could be forged. He expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in various sectors including rice production, tourism, air connectivity, skills development, and infrastructure.
During the event, Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo announced plans for the Board of Investments and the Council for the Development of Cambodia to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This agreement aims to facilitate closer investment ties by sharing information on investment regimes and supporting investors from both countries.
Additionally, two MOUs were signed in the presence of the Cambodian Prime Minister. One was between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, and the other between Asia Europe University and World Citi Colleges, further solidifying the commitment to deepen economic and educational collaborations.
Hun Manet’s visit, which extends until Tuesday, underscores the mutual interest in unlocking the full economic potential between Manila and Phnom Penh through strengthened trade and investment relations.