On a recent Sunday, an important meeting took place between Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister-Designate Hun Manet, and the visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The discussions set the stage for an even more profound relationship between the two countries, with both sides expressing their intent to strengthen their strategic mutual trust and perpetuate the age-old friendship that has been nurtured over decades.
Prime Minister Hun Sen conveyed the significance of the visit by such a high-level Chinese delegation, especially soon after Cambodia’s general elections. This gesture underscored China’s unyielding support for Cambodia and showcased the deep-rooted bond between the two nations, often described as an “ironclad friendship.”
Hun Sen emphasized that the upcoming Cambodian administration would intensify its efforts to bolster the strategic trust between the nations and uphold the longstanding camaraderie with China. He also expressed Cambodia’s enthusiasm to work jointly on two significant bilateral initiatives: the “Diamond Hexagon” cooperation consensus and the promotion of the “Industrial Development Corridor” and the “Fish and Rice Corridor.” These initiatives aim to amplify Cambodia’s capacity for autonomous development.
Wang Yi, who also holds a key position within the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee, extended his hearty congratulations to the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) for their overwhelming victory in the general elections. He assured Cambodia of China’s unwavering support, emphasizing China’s belief in Cambodia’s right to pursue a developmental trajectory suited to its unique national circumstances. He commended Cambodia’s dedication to safeguarding its national interests and dignity and applauded its increasing influence on both regional and international stages.
Wang highlighted China’s eagerness to join hands with the incoming Cambodian government to nurture an exemplary China-Cambodia community for the future. The goal, Wang said, is to bring to fruition the profound agreements reached by the leaders of both countries. This would ensure that the close-knit bond between the two nations is not only preserved but also becomes a legacy, cherished and passed down through the generations.
Echoing this sentiment, Hun Manet acknowledged the instrumental role China has played in Cambodia’s journey towards peace and stability. He recognized that Cambodia’s remarkable developmental strides owe much to China’s generous and unconditional support. Hun Manet expressed Cambodia’s anticipation for more intense high-level interactions with China, aiming for a strategic alignment and collaboration across various sectors. These sectors encompass agriculture, manufacturing, economic ventures, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
Wang reciprocated by emphasizing China’s readiness to work alongside Cambodia in planning future high-level interactions. He proposed a deepened exchange of governance insights, administrative practices, law enforcement cooperation, and security collaborations. Wang believes such exchanges will further cement the positive public sentiment towards the China-Cambodia alliance.
The visit was also marked by meetings between Wang and Cambodian Deputy Prime Ministers Hor Namhong and Sun Chanthol, the latter being a Prime Minister-designate. Wang commended Cambodia on its successful electoral process and the imminent formation of a new governing body.
Reiterating China’s position as a comprehensive strategic collaborator, Wang accentuated China’s dedication to supporting Cambodia’s aspirations. This support includes upholding Cambodia’s sovereignty, independence, and national pride, enabling the country to further establish its footprint in the regional and international realms.
Both Namhong and Chanthol conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to China, acknowledging the nation’s unwavering stance alongside Cambodia during pivotal moments in its history. They expressed optimism for deepening the collaborative efforts between the two countries, especially in the backdrop of the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic ties and the “Cambodia-China Year of Friendship.”
Furthermore, Wang had a constructive dialogue with the Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and the designated Foreign Minister, Sok Chenda Sophea. Sophea acknowledged the pivotal role of bilateral collaborations in elevating the living standards of Cambodians. He articulated Cambodia’s commitment to amplifying the strategic essence of its relations with China. The intention is to diversify areas of collaboration and serve as a benchmark for the high-quality execution of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Wang, expressing China’s deep-rooted allegiance to its bond with Cambodia, reaffirmed China’s role as a steadfast ally, not just during Cambodia’s growth phase, but even during challenging times.
The discussions also touched upon strengthening the relationship between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Both parties recognized the significance of continuous dialogue, endorsing ASEAN centrality, and the collective drive to ensure regional peace, stability, and prosperity. The overarching sentiment was to strive for mutual beneficial outcomes, forging a future where both nations grow in harmony.
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