China, Cambodia pledge stronger ties as Xi Jinping welcomes new PM Hun Manet to Beijing
Beijing and Phnom Penh promise further cooperation in law enforcement, security and industryTrip marks Hun Manet’s first bilateral visit since succeeding his father to become Cambodian leaderChina-Asean relationsZhao ZiwenPublished: 6:02pm, 15 Sep, 2023Why you can trust SCMP
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday pledged more support on “national sovereignty, security, and development”, as Beijing grapples with tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
During a visit to Beijing, Hun Manet also promised to improve law enforcement and security cooperation to crack down on cyber scams in Southeast Asia, activities that that often target Chinese nationals.
“Regardless of changes in the international and regional situations, China has always been Cambodia’s most trustworthy friend and most steadfast supporter,” Xi was quoted by Chinese state media as saying.
He added that China was ready to work “side by side” with Cambodia to “uphold international justice and the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries”.
In Phnom Penh, Wang Yi shows support for Cambodia’s changing of the guard
Xi also said China would help Cambodia “explore development paths suited to national conditions” while promising to offer more potential areas for economic cooperation including industry and agriculture.