Interior Minister, Mr. Sar Sokha, of Cambodia and Laos Minister of Public Security, Mr. Vilay Lakham Phong, led a meeting in Vientiane from 24th to 26th March 2025 to review and assess the progress of bilateral cooperation between the two nations. Their discussion culminated in the signing of a new Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) for 2025, further solidifying their commitment to mutual goals in the areas of security, law enforcement, and transnational crime prevention.
This visit marks the continuation of the annual bilateral cooperation between Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior and Laos’ Ministry of Public Security, during which both parties assess the previous year’s collaboration and formalize agreements for the coming year. Moreover, the meeting reflected growing relationship between Cambodia and Laos in the field of internal security. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the achievements of their collaborative efforts over the past year, noting the successes in curbing criminal activities and enhancing border security.
Mr. Ren Ratanak, spokesman for the Ministry of Interior, shared that Sar Sokha and Mr. Vilay Lakham Phong co-chaired a review of the 2024 cooperation and also discussed global developments, including changes in the economic, political, and security landscapes.
During the visit, Mr. Sokha, accompanied by provincial governors from Ratanakiri, Preah Vihear, and Mr. Stung Treng, as well as police chiefs from these provinces, met with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. Mr. Sokha also paid his respects by laying a wreath at the Monument to the Heroes and Victims and visited other significant sites in the country.
Mr. Ratanak highlighted that the participation of the three provincial governors and police chiefs underscores Cambodia’s dedication, under Prime Minister Hun Manet and Minister Sokha’s leadership, to strengthening cooperation between the border provinces of both countries.
Discussions also focused on maintaining border security, fostering people-to-people exchanges, boosting trade, and preventing incidents that could impact national interests and bilateral ties.
Reflecting on the significance of the meeting, Mr. Ratanak said, “The role of the provincial police chiefs is critical in ensuring security by preventing crimes, including cross-border drug trafficking, human trafficking, online fraud, and other illegal activities,”
Historian Tek Meng from the Royal Academy of Cambodia pointed out that peacefully resolving outstanding border issues between Cambodia and Laos has yielded substantial benefits, particularly in strengthening people-to-people relations. He emphasized that peaceful resolutions bring mutual benefits and foster stronger bilateral ties.
In conclusion, the bilateral meeting between Cambodia and Laos underscores the continued commitment of both nations to enhancing cooperation, particularly in security and border management. With a focus on combating cross-border crimes such as drug trafficking and human trafficking, both countries are working together to address shared challenges and promote regional stability. The participation of provincial leaders and police chiefs highlights the importance of local collaboration in maintaining security along the border. Furthermore, the meeting proves to be significant in strengthening ties and fostering mutual benefits for both Cambodia and Laos. As both countries continue to build on their partnership, their joint efforts promise a more secure and prosperous future for their people.
