PHNOM PENH: Cambodia and Australia have lauded their excellent cooperation within the framework of the Ministry of Interior and the Australian Federal Police, particularly in combating cross-border crimes, human and drug trafficking and cybercrime.

The plaudits were given during a meeting between interior minister Sar Sokha and Australian ambassador to Cambodia Justin Whyatt on Wednesday (March 27).

“The ambassador and the minister highly praised the law enforcement cooperation ... in fighting against cross-border crimes, trafficking and online scams,” stated the ministry in a social media post.

Sokha expressed hope for the continued strengthening and expansion of the partnership between the two countries, both now and in the future.

He also conveyed his belief that the Australian side would persist in providing aid, such as technical and material assistance and training for law enforcement officials, to combat cross-border crimes.

He said the support would also extend to public administrative reforms, including decentralisation and deconcentration.

Sokha extended his gratitude to the ambassador and his colleagues, acknowledging that the meeting had reinforced the cooperative relationship between the Australian government and the ministry.

Am Sam Ath, operations director at rights group LICADHO, commented on the ongoing concerns the country faces despite clampdown on many offences.

“This requires us to further strengthen cooperation between various countries to stem the flow of smuggled drugs,” he said. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN