AKP Phnom Penh, June 18, 2026 --

Cambodian Minister of Culture and Fine Arts and President of the Cambodian National Commission for UNESCO, H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, held a working meeting with UNESCO Director-General H.E. Khaled El-Enany, on the sidelines of the 11th General Assembly of the States Parties to the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paris.

Leading the Cambodian delegation to the meeting held at UNESCO Headquarters from June 17-18, H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with UNESCO and reiterated the Royal Government’s determination to protect, preserve, conserve, and promote Cambodia’s cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible.

During the discussion, the UNESCO Director-General highlighted the organisation’s continued commitment to promoting culture and cultural heritage as a bridge for dialogue, mutual understanding, and peacebuilding at a time when many parts of the world are facing conflict and tensions.

The talks focused on the implementation of obligations under the 2003 Convention, particularly efforts by States Parties to safeguard and enhance the value of intangible cultural heritage.

Both sides also exchanged views on preparations to mark the 75th anniversary of Cambodia’s membership in UNESCO, as well as plans for the Director-General’s future visit to Cambodia during the Francophonie Summit scheduled for November 2026.

According to the discussion, the planned visit is expected to provide an important opportunity to highlight the achievements of Cambodia-UNESCO cooperation over more than seven decades.

By C. Nika