Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni gave a reception for outgoing Vietnamese Ambassador Ngo Anh Dung in Phnom Penh on July 18.

King Sihamoni said Cambodia always considers Vietnam a “big friend” who always supported and provided valuable assistance for his country during historical periods.

He thanked and highly valued Vietnam’s assistance in all aspects, especially in knowledge sharing and personnel training for Cambodia’s development at present.

The King said he wishes for further development of solidarity, friendship and cooperation between the two countries for the benefit and happiness of the two peoples.

King Sihamoni appreciated Ambassador Dung’s contributions to cementing bilateral relations, acknowledging the diplomat’s efforts in arranging Vietnam visits by his parents, King Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Mother Norodom Moniniet Sihanouk, and the King himself.

He conveyed his best regards to Vietnamese leaders and wished Vietnam greater achievements in national construction and defence.

Ambassador Dung thanked the King for supporting him in fulfilling his task in Cambodia, and noted under the reign of the King, leadership of the National Assembly, and sound performance of the Royal Government, Cambodia has made great strides in national development.

He wished ever-lasting peace, stability and development in Cambodia, thus facilitating mutually beneficial cooperation and shared development with Vietnam.

Earlier, the diplomat was received by Prime Minister Hun Sen, who emphasised the Cambodia-Vietnam special relations and commended the diplomat’s contributions to fostering the bilateral ties, including a record high of 3.5 billion USD in two-way trade in 2013.-VNA