Phnom Penh, Cambodia – April 18, 2025-Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded a significant state visit to Cambodia, held from April 17 to 18, 2025, aimed at deepening the longstanding diplomatic and cooperative relations between the two countries. The visit was made at the invitation of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath, NORODOM Sihamoni, King of Cambodia.
During his visit, Xi Jinping engaged in a royal audience with King Sihamoni and met with prominent Cambodian political figures, including Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN Sen, President of the Senate, and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet. This high-level engagement highlights the commitment of both nations to their "iron-clad friendship."
The discussions focused on various key areas including political cooperation, economic development, security, and cultural exchanges. Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to expanding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and fostering win-win cooperation, emphasizing the importance of mutual support for each other's core interests.
Political and Strategic Cooperation
A crucial focal point of the discussions was the commitment to enhancing political exchanges at all levels. Both sides recognized the need for ongoing dialogue to nurture trust and collaboration between their respective governments, especially the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense.
In light of regional tensions, Cambodia reaffirmed its adherence to the One-China Policy, stressing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Additionally, Cambodia expressed its opposition to foreign interference in China's internal matters, particularly regarding issues related to Xinjiang, Xizang, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. For its part, China pledged to support Cambodia in its endeavors to maintain national sovereignty and to play an active role in regional and global affairs.
Economic Collaboration and Development Initiatives
The economic dialogues between Xi and Cambodian leaders stressed the importance of collaboration in trade and investment. Leaders from both countries commended the impressive economic progress made by China and recognized Cambodia's achievements in political stability and economic development.
Joint commitments were made to implement the Diamond Cooperation Framework and to expedite the construction of the "Industrial and Technological Corridor" and the "Fish and Rice Corridor." Both representatives emphasized their intent to enhance synergy between China's Belt and Road Initiative and Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy.
In addition, they discussed joint efforts to develop a high-standard economic cooperation zone and critical infrastructure projects, including transportation networks and logistical facilities. China reiterated its support for initiatives within the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, emphasizing collaboration on significant ventures like the Funan Techo Integrated Water Resources Management Project.
Security and Defense Commitments
On security matters, both nations agreed to strengthen military cooperation, including regular exchanges and joint training exercises. The Chinese delegation commended Cambodia's efforts to combat illegal online gambling and vowed to enhance law enforcement cooperation against transnational crimes.
Environmental and Cultural Cooperation
Addressing the global threat of climate change, Xi and Cambodian leaders committed to improving environmental protection initiatives and advancing clean energy projects, particularly in hydropower, solar, and wind energy sectors.
Culturally, both nations pledged to enhance people-to-people exchanges, including educational scholarships and tourism collaboration. Notably, 2025 was designated as the "Cambodia-China Year of Tourism," with plans to promote travel between the two nations. Joint efforts will also focus on the preservation and restoration of significant cultural sites like the Angkor Royal Palace Ruins.
Future Outlook
The state visit culminated in the signing of thirty-seven cooperative agreements covering a diverse array of sectors, from education and public health to trade and cultural exchanges. As part of this initiative, a joint statement was issued, affirming the commitment of both countries to build "an all-weather Cambodia-China Community with a Shared Future" in the new era.
This visit marks a new chapter in Cambodia-China relations, catalyzing ongoing collaboration across multiple sectors while reinforcing mutual support on the global stage.
