This year 2020, the diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Singapore marks its 55th anniversary. As proposed by Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism and Singaporean’s Embassy, a Street Art Festival will be held in Phnom Penh to celebrate the diplomatic relations of two nations. It is a grand feast of showcasing Arts and Culture through art pieces, food, music, culture, and history.
Singapore had played a huge part in the post-war reconstruction and economic recovery of Cambodia. It resulted in a strong bilateral relations between the two countries and its people. In commemoration of its bilateral ties, the two countries have organized an event not only involving the government but the citizens of the countries as well.
“I wanted something impactful and meaningful that can be celebrated by both people, not just the bureaucracies.” Singapore Ambassador H.E. Michael Tan said in an interview with KhmerTimes.
The World Bridge Arena has been selected to hold an expected great number of visitors from all over the world for the awaited Street Art Festival. It is a popular destination known for its enormous construction and exquisite design. Its location is in Chak Angre Krom, along the Tonle Bassac, accessible through National Road 2 and Hun Sen Boulevard, as well as by boat in Tonle Bassac.
This year’s #StreetArtFest2020 will be a two-week long celebration starting from February 15 to February 29 between 5pm to 9pm. Hailed as a one-of-a-kind event, it is the First Street Art Festival in Asia uniting two nations with a single purpose. One of the main objectives of this event is to attract more tourists, foreign investments and promote job creation in the Kingdom.
On its official launch, the Vice President of the Street Art Festival Organising Committee mentioned that the event aims to fortify the bilateral ties between Cambodia and Singapore in such manner that “has never been done before.”
It is packed with amazing art pieces of both Cambodian and Singaporean artists. The event will feature a live mural painting sessions of the International Street Mural Cambodia Artist Fonki and Singapore’s Renowned Artist Yip Yew Chong. Held for a good cause, the artwork pieces will be displayed for availability to purchase whereas the funds will be donated directly to Cambodia Children Fund and the Cambodian Living Arts.
The event is an expression not only of street art but street food as well, Singapore Ambassador Nick Tan said. The festival-goers will get to taste the Singapore and Cambodia cuisine – the best of both nations from the food vendors representing Cambodian and Singaporean culture. There will be 20 food kiosks serving various kinds of food and beverages.
Through the creation of large artistic pieces, the street art aims to promote the tourist destinations in Cambodia. The street food, on the other hand, is focused on promoting hygiene in preparing street treats and delicacies.
A Quick Look Back on the Historical Ties of Cambodia and Singapore
1965: The diplomatic ties between Cambodia and Singapore was established after Singapore became an Independent country. Cambodia was the first country to recognize its independence.
1975: The diplomatic ties were suspended but the trade relations remain between countries.
1992: The resumption of diplomatic ties with Singapore.
1980s: During the Khmer Rouge, Singapore provided timely humanitarian assistance through its trade and economic relations with Cambodia. It helped Cambodia in rehabilitating and reconstructing the economic sectors essential to the economic growth.
2000: The Cambodian Prime Minister, Hun Sen, officially visited Singapore.
2001: . Singaporean Prime Minister, Goh Chok Tong, officially visited Cambodia.
2003: The Singaporean President S. R. Nathan paid a state visit to Cambodia.
2006: The Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni paid a state visit to Singapore.
2005: The Singaporean Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, paid a visit to Cambodia.
The relationship between Singapore and Cambodia was not only built through trade and business, but was tested through time. Singapore has been a major supporter of Cambodia especially during the oppressive period of Khmer Rouge. The countries have excellent diplomatic relations that continue to grow and work in building a united and cohesive Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN.
This was strengthened through the continuous exchange of visits by the countries’ government leaders. Its visits have resulted in the promotion of Singapore’s foreign direct investment in Cambodia, enhancement of human resource development in Cambodia, and the tourism development plan for Cambodia.
View more information in Facebook Event – #StreetArtFest2020
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