Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Tianjin on Saturday, reaffirming commitments to deepen bilateral cooperation amid evolving regional dynamics. The meeting marked Hun Manet's first official visit to the Chinese mainland since assuming office in 2023.
Discussions focused on expanding trade partnerships, infrastructure development under the Belt and Road Initiative, and cultural exchanges. Xi emphasized China's support for Cambodia's 'Five-Year Plan' for economic modernization, while Hun Manet praised cross-border collaboration in digital economy projects.
Analysts note the timing holds strategic significance as ASEAN nations navigate shifting global supply chains. The leaders also addressed shared environmental goals, including a proposed joint Mekong River conservation fund.
This engagement follows recent progress on the China-Cambodia Free Trade Agreement, which has boosted bilateral trade by 18% year-on-year since 2022. Observers anticipate new agreements in renewable energy and agricultural technology sectors in coming months.
