Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet visits Thailand with busy schedule to extend close ties
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Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet arrived in Thailand's capital on his first official visit since becoming his country's leader last year. He is scheduled to meet with his Thai counterpart, Srettha Thavisin, have a royal audience with King Maha Vajiralongkorn, preside over the signing of several documents on bilateral cooperation, and address a Thailand-Cambodia business forum. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation, especially in the economic development of border areas, trade and investment, transportation connectivity, tourism cooperation, and fostering closer ties between the two countries. The visit also reaffirms the close relationship established by Hun Manet's father and predecessor, Hun Sen. However, human rights activists criticize the cooperation between the two countries, alleging the repression of political dissidents. Several Cambodian opposition figures and government critics who fled to Thailand were recently detained in Bangkok. Cambodian officials highlight the positive course of relations between Hun Manet and Srettha, who both assumed office last year and have engaged in congratulatory phone calls and official visits. Cambodia and Thailand have generally warm relations, with Cambodia sending laborers to fill low-paying jobs in Thailand's construction sector.