By CHUN Sovannarith, Resident Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
On 20 August 2025, TATOLI News Agency published an article by H.E. Ambassador Dionisio Babo Soares, Representative of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste (DRTL) to the United Nations. In his commentary, the Ambassador warned his Government against what he called Cambodia’s “mistake” in establishing offshore casinos. While I appreciate his engagement in policy debate, I must respectfully but firmly correct several misrepresentations of Cambodia’s development path.
A Misguided Comparison: Casinos as Part of Economic Diversification, Not a Mistake
The Ambassador portrayed Cambodia’s leadership, particularly those from the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), in a dismissive and cynical manner. The CPP is not only the largest but also the most democratically elected political party in Cambodia, having governed the country for decades through free and fair elections recognized by the international community. To suggest otherwise undermines the achievements of a nation that has overcome conflict and poverty to build stability and growth.
Casinos in Cambodia are not a policy mistake but part of a broader development strategy that has delivered jobs, investment, and growth. The facts deserve to be told clearly.
His remarks on casinos in Cambodia — presented as an “empirical fact” — ignore the reality of what the sector has contributed to our economy. The truth is that the development of casinos and related industries, particularly in Sihanoukville, has been part of Cambodia’s broader strategy for economic diversification. This industry has generated jobs, increased tax revenues, boosted tourism, and attracted substantial foreign direct investment (FDI). Sihanoukville today stands as one of Cambodia’s fastest-growing special economic zones.
It is also important to note that casinos are not unique to Cambodia. Many developed nations — including in Europe and North America — host far more casinos than Cambodia. To label Cambodia’s policy choice as a “mistake,” without recognizing these global practices or Cambodia’s tangible benefits, is unfair and misleading.
Cambodia’s Broader Progress: A Record of Growth, Governance, and Resilience
Beyond the casino debate, Cambodia’s development record over the past quarter century deserves recognition. Since the late 1990s, the country has enjoyed robust growth, averaging nearly 7% annually for two decades. According to the Asian Development Bank (2025), Cambodia’s GDP is projected at US$51.39 billion this year, with per capita income reaching US$2,429 and an expected growth rate of 6.3%.
These achievements are part of Cambodia’s long-term vision: to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by December 2029 and to become a prosperous, high-income nation by 2050. This progress has been possible because of Cambodia’s open-market economy, vibrant multiparty system, and above all, the leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, former Prime Minister and now President of the Senate, and the capable guidance of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom.
Governance and Rule of Law
Another misperception implied in the Ambassador’s remarks is that Cambodia lacks governance or accountability. This is far from reality. Cambodia’s Constitution guarantees the separation of powers, while the Anti-Corruption Unit ensures that public officials act transparently and in the public interest. No one is above the law. These institutions demonstrate Cambodia’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and sustainable development.
FDI, often cited as a cornerstone of Cambodia’s growth, is also subject to strict regulation. All projects are screened by the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), the sole authority for approving investments. This ensures transparency, safeguards national interests, and creates an environment where foreign investors feel secure and welcome.
To dismiss Cambodia’s system as a “façade” is not only inaccurate but also undermines the significant reforms and resilience the Cambodian people have demonstrated.
ASEAN Spirit and Regional Solidarity: ASEAN Unity Requires Facts, Not Misconceptions
Cambodia has always stood with Timor-Leste. Our support for Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN has been consistent and in good faith. We welcome Timor-Leste’s official entry as the 11th ASEAN member state this October, a milestone that reflects the region’s collective strength.
In this context, it is especially important for both our nations to speak of one another with accuracy and respect. Mischaracterizations of Cambodia’s policies risk not only undermining bilateral goodwill but also weakening the spirit of ASEAN unity and community-building.
Correcting the Record
I recognize and appreciate Ambassador Soares’ effort to provide policy recommendations to his Government. Healthy debate is essential in every democracy. However, his characterization of Cambodia’s development experience, particularly in relation to casinos, does not reflect the facts. Cambodia’s achievements over the past 26 years — from economic growth to institutional reforms — cannot be ignored or reduced to a single, negative narrative.
It is therefore my duty, as the Ambassador of Cambodia to Timor-Leste, to set the record straight. The casino industry has been a contributor, not a detractor, to Cambodia’s growth. Our governance structures ensure accountability and transparency. And our leadership continues to guide the Kingdom toward prosperity with a clear vision.
A Call for Mutual Understanding
Cambodia remains committed to supporting Timor-Leste in its development journey and ASEAN integration. We believe our friendship and cooperation are stronger when rooted in truth and mutual respect. As Timor-Leste joins the ASEAN family, it is essential that we build our regional future on shared facts, not misconceptions.
In closing, I reiterate that Cambodia values its partnership with Timor-Leste and wishes only for its success. But it is equally important that Cambodia’s leadership, institutions, and achievements are recognized accurately. Misrepresentations do not serve the interests of either country. The truth must be told — not to win an argument, but to preserve dignity, strengthen cooperation, and advance the prosperity of our region.
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