Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol has reaffirmed the nation's unwavering commitment to its strategic partnership with China during a ceremony in Phnom Penh this week, framing the alliance as critical for sustainable development amid global economic and geopolitical challenges.
A Partnership Built on Mutual Growth
Speaking at the 30th anniversary event of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, Sun emphasized the "traditional friendship rooted in mutual respect and pragmatic cooperation." Quoting a Cambodian proverb—"one tree does not make a house"—he stressed the necessity of collaboration with China to achieve shared development goals.
Economic Priorities Take Center Stage
The deputy PM highlighted tangible benefits of bilateral cooperation, including job creation and skills training for Cambodian youth. He praised China's Belt and Road Initiative for enhancing Cambodia's infrastructure and competitiveness, while calling for "higher-quality and broader" Chinese investments in 2026.
New Framework for Challenging Times
With both nations agreeing to implement the "Diamond Hexagon" cooperation framework, Sun outlined plans to address climate pressures, technological shifts, and supply chain realignments. He described the Cambodia-China relationship as an "all-weather community with a shared future," pledging improved transparency and dialogue with Chinese enterprises.
