AKP Phnom Penh, June 11, 2025 --

H.E. Aphi Santepundit Sar Sokha, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, held a working meeting at the ministry here on June 10 afternoon, with Mr. Sanui Kazumasa, Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Cambodia.

The two sides exchanged views on enhancing bilateral cooperation, especially in the field of interior affairs.

H.E. Aphi Santepundit Sar Sokha expressed deep appreciation for JICA’s ongoing support and collaboration across multiple areas, particularly in the development of local governance systems through both decentralisation and deconcentration, the training of civil servants, the Siem Reap Smart City Project. These efforts aim to bring administrative services closer to the people and improve road safety to reduce traffic accidents.

Mr. Sanui Kazumasa briefed H.E. Aphi Santepundit Sar Sokha on the achievements of Phase I of the Siem Reap Smart City Project, recently completed in May 2025. He confirmed that JICA will continue its cooperation in Phase II of the project, scheduled to run from 2025 to 2028, in collaboration with the provincial government and relevant institutions.

He also highlighted JICA’s support in combating human trafficking, including input on victim identification guidelines and ongoing technical assistance through its “3Es” framework (Education, Empowerment, and Employment). Additionally, JICA is contributing to the improvement of National Road No. 5.

In response, the Cambodian DPM thanked JICA for its support of these key initiatives and requested continued assistance in local governance, especially through on-the-ground engagement to assess needs and provide targeted support. He also called for continued involvement in the Smart City initiative, support for anti-human trafficking efforts, capacity-building for local communities, and collaboration with competent authorities to enhance traffic safety and reduce accidents.

The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming all forms of cooperation with JICA in pursuit of mutual development goals.

By K. Rithy Reak