Today I announce the appointment of Mr Derek Yip as Australia's next Ambassador to the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Australia has a longstanding relationship with Cambodia, an important regional partner and valued member of ASEAN.
Australia is committed to working with Cambodia to support ASEAN's vital contribution to peace, prosperity and security in the region.
Cambodia has one of the fastest growing economies in the region. Increasing Australia's trade and investment links with Cambodia is a priority under the government's Invested: Australia's Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.
Australia and Cambodia cooperate closely on promoting inclusive and sustainable development, including in the health, infrastructure and agriculture sectors, and on important issues such as peacekeeping and combating transnational crime.
Our relationship is underpinned by strong people-to-people ties. Australia is home to more than 57,000 people of Cambodian heritage.
Mr Yip is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and was most recently Assistant Secretary of the East Asia Political Branch. He has previously served overseas on two postings to China.
I thank former Ambassador Justin Whyatt for his contributions to advancing Australia's interests in Cambodia.
