Cambodia Investment Review
The British Embassy in Phnom Penh celebrated the 76th birthday of King Charles III with a grand event at the Himawari Hotel Apartment, highlighting the strong educational ties between the United Kingdom and Cambodia.
Around 300 guests attended the celebration, including officials from the Royal Government of Cambodia, diplomatic missions, education partners, and representatives from civil society and NGOs. The event aimed to strengthen cultural and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Programs Supported By The UK Government & UK-Registered NGOs
British Ambassador to Cambodia, Dominic Williams, emphasized the significance of the annual celebration. “The King’s Birthday Party reception is a joyful moment each year when the Embassy makes a special effort to celebrate our friendship with Cambodia and to say thank you to those we have worked with closely throughout the year, on everything from defence and security to human rights and gender equality,” he said.
Williams highlighted several collaborative efforts from the past year, such as launching a political dialogue, working together on green and sustainable infrastructure, and starting a major environmental program in Virachey National Park. He particularly praised the partnership with Cambodia’s Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport. “I believe that the UK makes our biggest contribution to Cambodia’s future prosperity through our development programs and commercial engagement on education,” he added.
The event focused on education, showcasing various programs supported by the UK Government and UK-registered NGOs. These initiatives were prominently featured to demonstrate their impact on Cambodia’s education sector.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sport, Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, delivered remarks on behalf of the Cambodian government. He extended best wishes for King Charles III’s health and reign and reflected on the long-standing friendship between Cambodia and the UK. “This occasion allows us to reflect on the longstanding friendship and cordial relations that bind the Kingdom of Cambodia and the United Kingdom, which are among the oldest remaining royal institutions globally,” he said.
UK Efforts In Promoting Education In Cambodia
Dr. Hang Chuon Naron highlighted the UK’s contributions to Cambodia’s education sector, particularly through the Chevening Programme, which has provided over 200 scholarships to Cambodian students since 1993. “These scholarships have nurtured a generation of talented individuals, some of whom now hold prominent positions within the Royal Government,” he noted.
He also praised Ambassador Williams for his efforts in promoting education in Cambodia, including the launch of De Montfort University, the establishment of schools with British curricula, and the successful Cambodia International Debate and Public Speaking Championship Series. “Let me recognize the proactive and important role of His Excellency Ambassador Dominic Williams in promoting and supporting education in Cambodia,” Dr. Hang Chuon Naron added.
Sponsors for the celebration included IDP Education, Everybody Counts, CamEd, Prudential, Seekers Independent Spirits, and the Himawari Hotel. Ambassador Williams expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am grateful to our fantastic sponsors who have enabled us to put on such a wonderful celebration.”
The evening concluded with a toast to the health and prosperity of King Charles III, His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, and The Queen Mother, led by Dr. Hang Chuon Naron and Ambassador Williams.
