Prime Minister Hun Sen has extended his condolences to the Japanese people and bereaved family of former Prime Minister Toshiki Kaifu who passed away on January 2 at the age of 91.

Hun Sen said Kaifu, who served as prime minister from 1989 to 1991, should be remembered for his valuable contribution to the peace process in Cambodia.

“I am extremely saddened to learn about the demise of His Excellency Mr Kaifu Toshiki, former Prime Minister of Japan. On behalf of the Royal Government and people of Cambodia, I would like to express my deepest condolences to Your Excellency and through you to the Japanese people and the bereaved family on this great loss,” Hun Sen said in his letter dated January 14 addressed to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Hun Sen said Kaifu was an outstanding statesman who will always be remembered for his instrumental role in promoting peace, stability and development in the region and beyond, and particularly for his contribution to the peace process in Cambodia which led to the Paris Peace Agreements in 1991.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Your Excellency and the people of Japan during this difficult time,” Hun Sen wrote.