Government : The Prime Minister justifies the return of H.E. Prak Sokhonn as Minister of Foreign Affairs

Prime Minister Hun Manet explained the reasons for the cabinet reshuffle, which saw 70-year-old H.E. Prak Sokhonn reappointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

H.E. Prak Sokhonn was unanimously approved by the National Assembly on 20 November 2024 to resume his former duties as Minister of Foreign Affairs. He will replace H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea, who will retain his position as Deputy Prime Minister. Mr Sokhon previously held this position from 2016 to 2023, before becoming Deputy President of the Senate in April 2024.

During the National Assembly session, the Prime Minister stressed the need for Cambodia to ‘prepare for external risks, which are rapidly evolving and difficult to predict’. He pointed to a number of external challenges, including heightened geopolitical tensions, the potential resurgence of unilateralism and growing economic fragmentation, both globally and regionally.

Addressing these challenges, he said, would help to strengthen the competitiveness of the Cambodian economy, improve the business and investment environment and attract companies that might otherwise seek to relocate from other regions.

‘With Prak Sokhonn's extensive experience in foreign affairs and international cooperation, and Sok Chenda Sophea's expertise in trade and investment, the proposed reshuffle will undoubtedly strengthen the government's capacity,’ he added.

‘This adjustment will strengthen Cambodia's foreign policy and international trade on the world stage, ensuring adaptability and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities to advance national interests,’ he concluded.