Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said at an International Labour Day celebration on Koh Pich in Phnom Penh on April 26 that, amid a changing international environment, no other country could take Cambodia’s place in ensuring its security. He stressed that Cambodia could not rely on outside aid or handouts and needed to strengthen itself to preserve lasting peace.
Hun Manet identified a stronger economy and stronger defence as two key priorities. He said economic strength was an important foundation for national security, affecting people’s living standards and education, while a sound economy also supported social stability. He said Cambodia would continue increasing investment in its defence capabilities to maintain its capacity to respond independently to complex circumstances.
In addition, the prime minister outlined a course of independent development. Alongside strengthening the armed forces, the government would focus on investment in human resources and socioeconomic development, building the country’s overall capabilities to safeguard its security and development interests and retain control over its future.