PHNOM PENH — Cambodian Acting Head of State and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between Cambodia and China during a ceremony marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on September 26. The event was hosted at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel and attended by senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, and distinguished guests.

Ambassador Wang Wenbin emphasized China’s continued support for Cambodia’s sovereignty and development. He celebrated the recent opening of Techo International Airport, describing it as a symbol of Cambodia’s vibrant progress toward achieving middle-income status by 2030 and high-income status by 2050. Wang expressed confidence in the future of Cambodia and underscored China’s commitment to being a reliable partner in the kingdom’s development, working jointly toward the rejuvenation of both nations.

Techo Hun Sen praised China’s economic achievements over the past 76 years, noting its transformation into a global economic, trade, and technological powerhouse. He highlighted President Xi Jinping’s leadership, noting milestones such as the attainment of the first centenary goal in 2021 and sustained economic growth projections for 2024 and beyond. Hun Sen also celebrated the deep-rooted friendship between Cambodia and China, which has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership since diplomatic relations were established in 1958.

“Since then, our countries have nurtured strong solidarity and mutual benefit,” Techo Hun Sen said. He emphasized that 2025 marks a significant year for Cambodia-China relations, commemorating the 15th anniversary of their strategic partnership, the recent state visit of President Xi to Cambodia, a royal visit by Cambodia’s King to China, and other key diplomatic exchanges, including Cambodia’s invitation to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin.

The Cambodian leader expressed optimism for further growth in bilateral ties, highlighting initiatives such as the Cambodia-China Tourism Year, efforts to expand trade—particularly in agricultural exports—and increased Chinese investment in Cambodia. He urged the relevant ministries to intensify cooperation to implement these initiatives, including efforts to revive Chinese tourism, enhance direct flights, and promote people-to-people exchanges.

During the banquet, Techo Hun Sen underscored the importance of strengthening “steel-like” friendship and advancing flagship projects, including the Industrial and Technology Corridor and the Mekong-Angkor Corridor. He also called for accelerated integration of the Belt and Road Initiative and the first phase of Cambodia’s Five-Point Strategy, aiming to build a community of shared future that benefits the peoples of both countries.

Ambassador Wang reaffirmed China’s unwavering backing for Cambodia’s sovereignty and development interests and reiterated China’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across all sectors, including trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.

Both leaders expressed confidence in the enduring partnership, emphasizing that the relationship is rooted in principles of equality, respect, and mutual benefit — a partnership poised for continued growth in the coming years.