Phnom penh: Cambodia and the United Kingdom have engaged in discussions to enhance gender equality and empower women. The meeting took place between H.E. Mrs. Lork Kheng, Chairwoman of the National Assembly's 8th Commission, and H.E. Dominic Williams, the British Ambassador to Cambodia, at the National Assembly Palace on August 7.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Dominic Williams highlighted the meeting's objective to explore additional methods to combat violence against women and address gender issues. The focus was on empowering women, prioritizing local women for education in knowledge, health, and decision-making at all levels. The UK has been in collaboration with Cambodia's Ministry of Women Affairs and Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports to provide scholarships for Cambodian women to pursue higher education in the UK.

H.E. Mrs. Lork Kheng emphasized the Parliament's and the Royal Government's commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls across all priority sectors. She referenced the Neary Rattanak VI Strategic Plan (2024-2028), which aims to strengthen gender equality within ministries and institutions, increase women's participation in job markets, enhance entrepreneurship, and improve financial access.

She further urged development partners, particularly the UK, to assist in promoting gender equity through increased awareness in women's health and digital transformation, among other areas. During the meeting, Mr. Bikash Dawahoo, UK's Regional Gender and Equality Coordinator for Southeast Asia, Republic of Korea, and Japan, was introduced by H.E. Dominic Williams to share insights on Cambodia's ongoing efforts in promoting gender equality.