Enduring Friendship and Mutual Prosperity in Southeast Asia

In February 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with then-Cambodian prime minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing. This meeting between the two leaders highlighted their long-standing friendship.

In early 2020, Hun Sen visited Beijing to show Cambodia's support for China during the COVID-19 epidemic. Three years later, he returned, fulfilling a promise. Xi recalled the prime minister's earlier visit, emphasizing the strength of their bond.

The close relationship between Xi and Hun Sen reflects the deep connection between China and Cambodia, cultivated by generations of leaders. This "ironclad" relationship is set to continue as the Chinese leader embarked on a state visit to the Southeast Asian country.

During a 2016 state visit to Phnom Penh, Xi visited the royal palace and met with Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk. He was invited to sit in a chair reserved for the most esteemed friends, a testament to the respect and affection between the two nations.

Xi spoke fondly of King Father Sihanouk, describing him as a symbol of China-Cambodia friendship. The personal ties established by the king with Chinese leaders in the 1950s have been crucial in fostering the current friendship.

Xi has often used a Chinese saying to highlight the enduring nature of the China-Cambodia friendship. He also acknowledged Cambodia's early recognition of the People's Republic of China and its support for China's role in the United Nations.

China has been a consistent partner to Cambodia, supporting its independence and economic development, including the construction of key infrastructure projects. Xi awarded a Friendship Medal to the queen mother in 2020.

Xi has shown particular care for Cambodia's royal family, offering them a welcoming home in Beijing and arranging for their medical care. King Sihamoni and Queen Mother Monineath have regularly visited China for over a decade.

The friendship has extended to the next generation, with Hun Manet choosing China as his first official overseas destination after becoming prime minister. He pledged to continue the strong relationship between the two countries.

The relationship between China and Cambodia serves as an example of how countries can cooperate with mutual respect, equality, and win-win outcomes, contributing to regional peace and stability.