President arrives in Cambodia

PHNOM PENH - Reaffirming India’s ‘Look East’ policy and seeking to enhance ties with ASEAN countries, Indian President Pratibha Patil arrived here Monday on a six-day visit to Cambodia.

Patil was welcomed by Kong Sam Ol, deputy prime minister and minister of the Royal Palace of the Kingdom of Cambodia at the Phnom Penh International Airport.

Tuesday, Patil will be received in Royal Audience by King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace. She will also receive courtesy calls by Senate President Chea Sim, National Assembly President Heng Samrin and Prime Minister Hun Sen, Xinhua reported citing an official statement.

Patil and Hun Sen will preside over the signing ceremony of two documents, including a Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation between the National Auditing Authority of Cambodia and the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

The two leaders will also sign an agreement for Stung Tasal Water Resource Development Project (Phase 2) between Cambodian government and the Export-Import Bank of India.

Besides presiding over a ceremony for Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Asian Traditional Textiles Museum, Patil is expected to discuss with officials here topics including anti-terrorism cooperation, foreign investment and infrastructure development projects.

She will encourage the delegation of 40 businessmen accompanying her to take advantage of “mutually advantageous opportunities”.

Patil is also slated to visit the popular Angkor Wat temples.