Cambodia, Bangladesh ink visa exemption deal for diplomatic, official passport holders

PHNOM PENH, May 4 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia and Bangladesh on Friday signed a visa-free agreement for diplomatic and service passport holders in a bid to strengthen bilateral ties in politics, trade, investment and tourism, officials said.

The deal was inked here between Long Visalo, secretary of state at Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Kazi Imtiaz Hossain, Bangkok-based Ambassador of Bangladesh to Cambodia.

"The agreement will give further opportunity for the two countries to promote bilateral ties, particularly in politics, tourism, trade and investment," Long Visalo said after the signing ceremony. "Our two countries are located not very far from each other, so we believe that our relationship and cooperation will make headway in coming years."

Kazi Imtiaz Hossain said the visa-free deal would facilitate both sides' diplomats and officials to contact each other easier.

"Bangladesh and Cambodia are close friends. The agreement will not only further strengthen political tie, but also promote trade, investment and tourism," he said. "Bangladesh is pleased to explore more chance of cooperation with Cambodia for mutual benefits."

Trade and investment ties between the two nations are relatively small. On tourism side, only 1,367 Bangladeshis visited Cambodia last year, up 4 percent year on year, said a tourism report.

Cambodia has so far signed mutual visa exemption agreements for diplomatic and official passport holders with all ASEAN member countries as well as India, China, South Korea, Australia, Iran, Pakistan, Cuba and Uruguay.

Sourced: Cambodia News