PHNOM PENH:
Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded his Southeast Asia diplomatic tour with a high-profile visit to Cambodia on Thursday, aiming to deepen regional trade and strategic ties amid ongoing tensions with the United States.
Xi arrived in Phnom Penh following earlier stops in Vietnam and Malaysia. The tour reflects Beijing’s efforts to fortify its influence in Southeast Asia as it grapples with economic challenges, including significant tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
In the Cambodian capital, Xi was warmly received by both King Norodom Sihamoni and Prime Minister Hun Manet. A military welcome ceremony was held, underscoring the significance of the visit. Hun Manet and former leader Hun Sen posted photos and videos of their meetings with Xi on social media platforms.
During the visit, China and Cambodia signed 37 bilateral agreements covering various sectors, including agriculture and water resource management. Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted these developments in a Facebook post, emphasizing the strategic importance of the agreements.
China remains Cambodia’s largest trading partner and foreign investor, and holds over one-third of the country’s $11 billion foreign debt, according to the International Monetary Fund.
In comments published by Xinhua, Xi told King Sihamoni that the two countries have “set a model for equality, mutual trust, and win-win cooperation between countries of different sizes.”
Hun Manet described the Chinese president’s visit as a testament to their “iron-clad” friendship. He stressed shared values such as respect for sovereignty, equality, and non-interference, and credited China with playing a “pivotal role” in Cambodia’s socio-economic progress.
Key Points:
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Xi Jinping concluded Southeast Asia tour in Cambodia after visiting Vietnam and Malaysia.
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Met Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and former leader Hun Sen.
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Greeted with military ceremony by King Norodom Sihamoni.
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37 bilateral agreements signed in areas such as agriculture and water management.
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China is Cambodia’s top trade partner and investor; holds a third of its foreign debt.
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Xi emphasized cooperation and mutual trust; visit showcased as symbol of strong alliance.
President Xi’s visit to Cambodia capped a strategic regional tour aimed at reinforcing China’s diplomatic and economic clout in Southeast Asia. With deepening bilateral ties, Cambodia continues to be one of Beijing’s most steadfast allies, further solidifying China’s foothold in the region amid shifting global power dynamics.
