Hun Manet Seeks Singapore Support on Cambodia’s Military Conscription Plan
Hun Manet Seeks Singapore Support on Cambodia’s Military Conscription Plan
CEBU, May 7, 2026 — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong pledged to further strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation across trade, investment, defence and regional security during talks on the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Summit, Cambodian officials said.
The meeting took place on Thursday in Cebu, where ASEAN leaders gathered for regional discussions focused on economic resilience, energy security and geopolitical tensions.
According to Cambodia’s government, Wong praised the long-standing and productive relationship between Singapore and Cambodia, describing the latest meeting as a reflection of both countries’ close ties and commitment to broadening cooperation in bilateral and multilateral frameworks.
Singapore reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the momentum of relations and deepening collaboration in key sectors, officials said.
Hun Manet welcomed what he described as continued progress in bilateral ties, including the recent entry into force of a second protocol amending the agreement on the avoidance of double taxation and prevention of fiscal evasion related to income taxes.
Cambodian officials said the updated tax agreement is expected to encourage additional Singaporean investment into Cambodia.
The Cambodian leader also welcomed the recent signing of a memorandum of cooperation on food security between the two governments and expressed optimism about expanding cooperation into new sectors and strengthening partnerships between private businesses in both countries.
During the talks, Hun Manet informed Wong that Cambodia plans to begin implementing its military conscription law in 2026 and expressed hope that Singapore would continue sharing experience and expertise to support the process.
Singapore maintains one of Southeast Asia’s most established national service systems, which Cambodian officials have previously studied as a reference model.
The two leaders also discussed enhancing cooperation in commerce, energy, defence and security, while exchanging views on regional and international issues within ASEAN and broader global frameworks.
Singapore is among Cambodia’s major foreign investors and economic partners, particularly in finance, real estate, logistics and infrastructure development.
