History has shown that Cambodia and Japan have had a long-standing relationship linked by the feelings of friendship and fine traditional solidarity between the two people. Today we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the re-opening of the Japanese embassy in Cambodia coinciding with the official inauguration of the new imposing embassy building and the residence of the ambassador. The two ceremonies also bear evidence to ties of firm and lively friendship between the two peoples and countries. The entire Cambodian people, under the enlightened shade of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, - the heroic revered King- and Her Majesty the Queen, fell greatly satisfied with the fine friendship between the two nations, and will always keep it in their hearts. For Cambodians, what is most precious is Japanese contributions to the process of bringing about peace and national reconciliation, which put an end to more than two decades of protracted war. With the four-point peace plan and aid for the 1998 election, Japan made substantial contribution to pull Cambodia out of political crisis and lead it toward peace, stability, democracy and development. The most important contribution to the 2002 commune election was indispensable to the implementation of decentralization policy in Cambodia.

The Cambodian people highly appreciate the presence of Japanese volunteers, who made heroic sacrifices in performing their first overseas peacekeeping mission to create a favorable environment for the first general election in Cambodia in 1993. Also worthy of praise is the active role a Japanese figure - His Excellency Yashushi Akashi - who played in his capacity as chief of the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC). Most significantly, Japan is the number one country that has taken the lead in providing all kinds of assistance for the reconstruction of Cambodia.

The Japanese government and people's charitable assistance to Cambodians is the invaluable deeds. Achievements stemming from the Japanese people's priceless, timely and effective assistance are a common sight on the land of Cambodia. These achievements have served both the immediate and long-term needs of the Cambodian people for the country's development and poverty alleviation. Cambodian people and government applaud and express gratitude to the Japanese people and government for this charitable aid, and will make it the best use according to the purpose for which it was intended by its donor - the Japanese people.

Also in this solemn occasion, we would like to appreciate the Japanese and Cambodian foreign ministries and diplomats for their efforts to promote diplomatic relationship, and improve multi-form cooperation between Cambodia and Japan. In this context, I would like to express profound thanks to all the former Japanese ambassadors to the Kingdom of Cambodia, in particular His Excellency Imagawa and his colleagues for having made considerable achievements in Cambodia. I also express high appreciation and praise for the active effort made by Your Excellency Gotaro Ogawa to strengthen and broaden friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and Japan.

I would like to hail the inauguration of the new Japanese embassy, which is located on the main boulevard of Phnom Penh. This will lay the groundwork for the furtherance of Japanese-Cambodian friendship.

I also admire the organization of the Japanese-Cambodian cultural festival, which are not only beneficial to bringing the two peoples closer together, but also boosting cultural ties between them.

Before conclusion, on behalf of His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, and Her Majesty the Queen, I would like to:

• Extend my best wishes, good health and longevity, to the Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress.
• wish the Japanese leaders of all levels and people greater success,
• wish Your Excellency the Ambassador and Spouse and all honorable guests who are present here the best of health and success in carrying out your lofty missions.

Thanks !