Cambodia – New Zealand relations: A view from the ambassadors

Read part one here

On the bilateral relationship between New Zealand and Cambodia

Dr CHEUNBORAN Chanborey

New Zealand is a long-standing friend and partner of Cambodia, for the two countries established the diplomatic relations on 18 February 1959. The bilateral relations went through the twists and turns of history, particularly during the dark chapter of Cambodian history with civil war and the Killing Fields unfolding throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Against all odds, Cambodia emerged as a post-conflict success story. With the dividends of peace and national reconciliation, Cambodia has made great strides in national reconstruction with progress in all areas.

Dr CHEUNBORAN Chanborey, ambassador of Cambodia to Australia and New Zealand.

From building a robust economy to strengthening democratic values, Cambodia has transformed into a vibrant society that cherishes and upholds its unique cultural heritage. The success story is impossible without the support and assistance from the international community, including New Zealand.

Since 1994, New Zealand has provided a considerable amount of official development assistance (ODA) to Cambodia, focused on agriculture, renewable energy, governance, and knowledge and skills. New Zealand also supports mine clearance activities in Cambodia which have benefited not only the Cambodian people but also the international community.

The Cambodian diaspora in New Zealand of around 10,000 people, including those in the vibrant communities in Auckland and Hamilton, has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Cambodian culture and enriching the multicultural landscape of New Zealand. New Zealand Scholarships and the English Language for Officials (ELTO) program are significant initiatives in this area.

At the regional and international levels, Cambodia values New Zealand’s engagement with ASEAN and its support for ASEAN Centrality has been crucial for the promotion of a rules-based regional order in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Cambodia also appreciates New Zealand’s mutual support and assistance at other regional and international forums, including the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) and the UN.

Jonathan Kings

New Zealand played a significant role in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Cambodia in 1992, following the collapse of the Khmer Rouge regime. This was a key moment in Cambodia’s recovery from conflict, and New Zealand’s contributions included military support, financial assistance, and diplomatic engagement to help establish a peaceful and democratic Cambodia.

Jonathan Kings, New Zealand ambassador to Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.

Between 1975 and 1992, over 4,000 Cambodian refugees began a new life in New Zealand and are now proud Kiwis. Another area that might surprise many is New Zealand’s ongoing support for the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts (ECCT) of Cambodia, which has played a crucial role in seeking justice for atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge era. A New Zealand jurist and former Governor-General, Dame Silvia Cartwright, served as a judge on the ECCT for five years.

Similar to a decade ago, the bilateral relationship has remained focused on supporting Cambodia’s economic development, with New Zealand’s assistance in areas like agriculture (e.g. pest and disease management) and education (such as the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme) playing a key role. However, the relationship has also expanded. New Zealand’s support has evolved to include more strategic regional engagement, particularly through ASEAN, and the promotion of regional security and connectivity.

On what New Zealanders could learn about Cambodia

Dr CHEUNBORAN Chanborey

Cambodia has been known for her cultural richness, friendly people, vibrant cities, coastal chic, and above all the temple, Angkor Wat. With upgraded infrastructure across the country, including the opening of Cambodia’s newest and biggest airport in the ancient city of Siem Reap in October 2023 and soon another, much bigger airport in Phnom Penh in 2025, Cambodia is optimistic about the resurgence of the tourism sector. It is projected that the number of international tourists visiting Cambodia would surpass 7 million people by 2025, exceeding the pre-COVID-19 peak.

Cambodia’s strong economic growth with average annual rate of more than 7% before COVID-19 and around 6% from now till 2040, political stability, strategic location, young and skilled workforce, and open and well-integrated economy, make the Kingdom an attractive investment destination.

Siem Reap-Angkor airport terminal. This new airport opened in October 2023. Image: Wikimedia Commons

The 2023 election paved the way for the leadership transition in Cambodia. The new, youthful, dynamic and capable team led by Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister HUN Manet is now assuming the leadership role. With an average age of 49, this is the youngest Cabinet not only in Cambodia but also in ASEAN and perhaps beyond. This youthful, dynamic, and capable Cabinet continues to focus on advancing economic growth, institutional capacity building, and Cambodia’s enhanced role on the global stage.

Although our two countries are separated by a vast ocean, distinct cultural backgrounds, unique political cultures, they are bound by a shared commitment to cultural diversity, religious harmony and faith tolerance, gender equality and women's empowerment, and environmental conservation.

Jonathan Kings

What stands out is the warmth and openness of Cambodian counterparts. The Cambodian government and people have shown great hospitality and a genuine interest in deepening their partnership with New Zealand.

One memorable moment in the relationship has been seeing the tangible outcomes of New Zealand's long-standing development projects, such as those related to the preservation of the Angkor Archaeological Park, and how these efforts have contributed to both sustainable development and cultural heritage preservation.

Cambodian culture has left a lasting impression, particularly the importance placed on community, family, and respect for tradition. The deep sense of resilience and the desire for progress and stability, despite the country's traumatic history, is something that has made a significant impact.

Angkor Wat, part of the Angkor Archaeological Park. New Zealand has been involved in long-standing development projects, including some related to the preservation of the park.

On hopes for the future of the relationship

Dr CHEUNBORAN Chanborey

My hope for the future of the relationship between New Zealand and Cambodia is increased collaboration and mutual understanding. Stronger economic ties, increased tourism, and enhanced educational opportunities are also areas where I see great potential for growth and cooperation. This could involve more partnerships in areas such as sustainable development, education, and cultural exchanges.

I would recommend business matching events to further explore opportunities to expand bilateral trade volume, investment, especially in agricultural and agro-industrial sectors, green energy, and services. The signing of MoU on Tourism Cooperation between the Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia and New Zealand tourism-related authority should be encouraged in order to enhance the tourist flow between the two countries.

Jonathan Kings

The economic impacts of COVID-19 are still playing out in Cambodia, and tourism has taken a dramatic hit. As Cambodia moves towards a more resilient and diversified economy, New Zealand’s expertise in sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and economic diversification can continue to play a significant role.

In terms of human resource development, New Zealand sees opportunities for continued engagement, particularly in areas such as good governance, rule of law, and environmental sustainability. A strengthening of democratic institutions and human rights protections can only be done through more investment in education and capacity building – something New Zealand has been proud to deliver in Cambodia for more than 50 years.

Note: The author would like to thank the ambassadors and their staff for their time in contributing to this article.

Asia Media Centre