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Europe Day 2026: Celebrating Partnership and Shared Aspirations in Cambodia

12.05.2026 Press and information team of the Delegation to CAMBODIA

PHNOM PENH, 12 May 2026 – The European Union Delegation to Cambodia hosted a reception today to celebrate Europe Day, marking the 76th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and partners from civil society and the private sector.

In his remarks, EU Ambassador Igor Driesmans emphasized that the EU remains a steady and reliable partner for Cambodia in an increasingly complex world. “The vast majority of the world is deeply attached to the stability and predictability that comes from a strong rules-based international order,” the Ambassador noted, echoing the vision of Robert Schuman. “That is what the European Union is defending alongside our partners here in Cambodia and across the Indo-Pacific.”

The celebration highlighted the tangible effects of the EU-Cambodia partnership. A highlight of the evening was the photo exhibition, "Through the Khmer Lens: Seeing Europe in Cambodia". The collection showcased:

  • The blend of European culinary traditions within Khmer daily life.

  • The visual dialogue between French colonial heritage and the evolving Cambodian urban landscape.

  • The personal journeys of young Cambodians shaped by European scholarships and language studies.

“This exhibition is a testament to our strong people-to-people ties,” said Ambassador Driesmans. “Whether it is through the Global Gateway initiative, addressing climate change and digital transformation, or through education and vocational training, the EU is turning shared challenges into shared solutions, tailored to Cambodia.”

The evening also served as a moment to reaffirm the EU’s values. Even as the EU becomes more resilient and sovereign in sectors like energy and strategic technologies, it remains dedicated to defending human dignity and international law alongside its partners.

On Europe Day, the EU celebrates not only its history of peace but its active role in shaping a fairer, more prosperous world together with Cambodia.

 

For more information please contact:

Ms. Phalkun Chan, Press and Information Officer of the EU Delegation, Tel. 023 220 611 or E-mail: Phalkun.CHAN@eeas.europa.eu