Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan welcomed Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk to Beijing on Tuesday, marking a significant moment in cross-cultural diplomacy. The meeting underscored China's commitment to strengthening ties with Southeast Asian partners amid evolving regional dynamics.
During the talks, Xi emphasized the "time-tested friendship" between the two nations, highlighting cooperation in infrastructure development and cultural exchanges under the Belt and Road Initiative. The Cambodian royal family's visit coincided with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the countries.
Analysts note the meeting reinforces China's role as a stabilizing force in Asia, particularly in fostering economic collaboration. Recent data shows bilateral trade between China and Cambodia grew 7% year-on-year in 2023, with agricultural exports and technology transfers driving the expansion.
The engagement also featured discussions on preserving shared cultural heritage, with Peng Liyuan and the Queen Mother exchanging insights on traditional arts preservation. This cultural diplomacy component aligns with growing interest among Asia-focused travelers and diaspora communities in heritage conservation efforts.
