The opening ceremony was graced by Thong Khon, Senior Minister in charge of Special Missions; Heng Sour, Minister of Labour and Vocational Training; Samedi Sivathana, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports; Ueno Atsushi, Japanese Ambassador to Cambodia; and other esteemed guests.
Pen Mony Makara, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, emphasised that the Japan-Cambodia Kizuna Festival 2025 reflects the deep and enduring friendship between Cambodia and Japan.
He highlighted that this relationship is built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared appreciation for each other’s cultures. Over the years, these cultural ties have strengthened, fostering a broader understanding and meaningful partnerships across various fields.
According to Japanese Ambassador Ueno Atsushi, the festival’s theme, “The Harmony of Diversity,” embodies the beauty of cultural diversity and the unity between Japan and Cambodia. He expressed his enthusiasm for sharing this experience with participants.
“Cultural exchange plays a crucial role in connecting people, promoting understanding, and embracing diversity. It not only deepens mutual respect for traditions but also paves the way for cooperation in trade, tourism, education, and other sectors. By celebrating our cultural heritage together, we reinforce the bonds of friendship that unite our two nations,” emphasised Ambassador Ueno.
He further stated that “The Harmony of Diversity” serves as a reminder of the beauty of differences and the strength of unity. The festival demonstrates the power of cultural exchange in fostering international friendship and cooperation.
Samedi Sivathana expressed gratitude to the organisers for their efforts in making this annual event a success. He noted that the Japan-Cambodia Kizuna Festival serves as a platform to celebrate the strong bonds of friendship and cultural exchange.
