King Norodom Sihamoni expressed his gratitude to Japan for its role as co-chair of the International Coordinating Committee for Angkor (ICC-Angkor), which coordinates the repair of temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park.

The King granted an audience to Japan’s Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Komura Masahiro and his delegation at the Saint James Hotel in Paris, France on November 14, said the National Television of Cambodia (TVK).

He is currently paying a November 12-18 official visit to the European capital.

The King noted Japan’s assistance with the restoration of several temples – particularly the famed Bayon Temple – as well as research and extensive training on the protection and preservation of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Japan has contributed to some brilliant successes over the past three decades, according to TVK.

Earlier during the King’s visit to France, he also met with French President Emmanuel Macron and attended UNESCO’s 4th Intergovernmental Conference on Angkor, which was held during the 42nd Session of the UNESCO Conference.

The media said Masahiro had offered his warm congratulations on the 70th anniversary of Cambodia-Japan diplomatic relations, as well as for the growth of friendship and cooperation in all sectors between the two countries and peoples.

“Our friendly relationship has existed for a long time,” he said.

Masahiro offered his profound thanks to the King for the close attention he pays to cultural affairs.

He also highlighted his appreciation to the King for presiding over the fourth inter-government conference on Angkor, which was held under the theme: “Strengthening human resource for sustainable conservation and Angkor development”.