Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to deepening strategic cooperation with Cambodia during high-level talks in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, positioning the partnership as a stabilizing force in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.
Solidarity Against External Pressures
Wang criticized recent U.S. tariff increases on Cambodian exports as 'an attempt to deprive nations of legitimate development rights,' while highlighting China's contrasting approach of granting Cambodia zero-tariff treatment for all tariff lines. 'This demonstrates true friendship between neighbors,' said Prak Sokhonn, Cambodia's deputy prime minister, contrasting the 36% U.S. tariff hike with China's trade concessions.
Combating Cross-Border Challenges
The two nations agreed to intensify efforts against transnational crimes, including online gambling and telecom fraud. Wang proposed 'more robust measures to eradicate threats to public safety,' emphasizing shared security interests. The ministers also discussed border management strategies following recent developments along Cambodia's frontier with Thailand.
Diplomatic Balancing Act
While acknowledging differences between Cambodia and Thailand in border matters, Wang expressed confidence in regional solutions: 'As inseparable neighbors, both sides share the will to maintain harmony.' China pledged impartial support for dialogue, positioning itself as a neutral peace broker in Southeast Asian affairs.
