KEYSBOROUGH’S Kalyan Ky says free trade between Cambodia and Australia would boost Greater Dandenong business.
The Greater Dandenong 2011 Young Achiever of the Year is the Cambodia Australia Chamber of Commerce, Innovation and Industry president (CACCII).
The Cambodian Prime Minister’s son Hun Manet was in Australia with a delegation from 16 to 19 October.
Ms Ky organised for them to meet International Adviser to the Office of the Prime Minister Lynette Wood, and Richard Colbeck, the Tourism and International Education Minister and the Minister assisting the Minister for Trade and Investment.
She said both parties committed to continued discussions to strengthen ties, and spoke about a free trade agreement, the prospect of a working holiday visa and increased scholarship numbers.
Ms Ky said Cambodia could benefit from Australia’s technological expertise and that Greater Dandenong housed manufacturing businesses that produced industrial equipment, agribusiness equipment, food production and packaging technology.
“All of which can be used to export Cambodian produce – in particular, live seafood – to Australia,” she said.
Ms Ky said Australian companies could play a major role in Cambodia’s development.
She said that with investment would come technological advances, skills and expertise, and strong corporate governance.
“They can help build individuals, create jobs – which in turn alleviates poverty – and serve commercial interests,” she said.
“These are the benefits of free trade.”
