China, US pledge to work with Cambodia on cultural heritage preservation

**China and U.S. Reaffirm Commitment to Cambodia’s Cultural Heritage Preservation**

The embassies of China and the United States in Cambodia have announced a continued commitment to collaborating with Cambodian authorities on the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage. The initiatives focus on the restoration of antiquities, joint archaeological research, and the development of human resources within the sector.

Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin recently attended the opening ceremony of the China-Cambodia Cultural Heritage Exhibition alongside Phoeurung Sackona, Cambodia’s Minister of Culture and Fine Arts. During the event, Ambassador Wang highlighted the long-standing historical ties between the two nations. He stated that China intends to advance bilateral conservation programs and deepen cooperation in relic restoration, archaeological research, and professional training.

Ambassador Wang further noted that China plans to strengthen these efforts through multilateral frameworks, specifically the International Coordinating Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Site of Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk, as well as the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia. He described these initiatives as a means to foster cultural momentum and contribute to global civilizational exchanges.

Concurrently, the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia stated on Friday that its cooperation with the Cambodian government is intended to promote cultural sovereignty and strengthen local institutions. U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Aleks Zittle recently hosted senior officials from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and various heritage authorities to review past achievements and discuss future bilateral cooperation.

The collaborative efforts have received support from local observers. Huon Sokheang, an international relations student, noted that the involvement of both nations in restoration, research, and training is essential for the development and maintenance of Cambodia’s temples and historical sites.

Article and image source: khmertimeskh.com