Tokyo (FN), Jan. 11 – Akashi Yasushi, former Head of United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC), praised a wise decision of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Chairman of the Supreme Privy Council of the King and President of the Cambodian People's Party (CPP), on power transition to a new leadership characterized by strength and wisdom.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen received a courtesy call by Yasushi Akashi on Thursday (Jan. 11) at New Otani Hotel in Tokyo during Samdech Techo Hun Sen's visit to Japan from 9-12 January 2024.

On that occasion, Yasushi Akashi expressed his enthusiasm at the prospect of meeting Samdech Techo once again, extending his heartfelt gratitude for the gracious opportunity. He fondly reminisced about his tenure in Cambodia from 1992 to 1993 as the head of UNTAC, considering it a period that provided indelible memories that will forever be cherished.

He recalled Samdech Techo's positive collaboration and his gentle yet resolute flexibility, which he deemed instrumental in achieving favourable outcomes during UNTAC meetings. He underlined that the success of the mission would not have been possible without the cooperation of Samdech Techo.

On this occasion, Yasushi Akashi commended the leadership of the Royal Government of Cambodia in the past in the pursuit of peace, restoration, and reconstruction that has propelled Cambodia towards progress, prosperity, and a more favourable position. He underscored that Cambodia, when compared to some other countries in the region, deserves the pride and admiration of all stakeholders. He lauded Samdech Techo's judicious decision-making, acknowledging him as a strong and wise leader based on their past face-to-face interactions.

In addition, he expressed a personal interest in Cambodia's natural landscapes, including its forests and beaches, as well as its rich cultural heritage, particularly the need for wider global dissemination of attractions like Angkor Wat temple and Khmer ancient arts.

Samdech Techo, in response, expressed gratitude for the reunion and thanked Akashi for prompting reflections on Cambodia's challenging past. He attributed the current state of full peace and rapid development in Cambodia to the collaborative efforts between UNTAC, relevant countries at the time, and the direct endeavours of the Cambodian people.

Samdech Techo also underlined the remarkable transformation of Cambodia from a war-torn country to a peaceful one, from a battlefield to a hub of development, and from a region lacking in clean water and electricity to one with sufficient access. He pointed out the significant increase in the capital's territorial expanse, from just over 400 square kilometres to more than 700 square kilometres. The per capita income had surged from a mere USD 100 per year to over USD 2,000.

In the end, both dignitaries expressed optimism about the leadership of the new generation in advancing national economic development to unprecedented heights. They shared confidence in the deepening and growing bilateral relations between Cambodia and Japan in the future.
=FRESH NEWS