Phnom penh: Amidst the important proceedings of the 16th AIPA Caucus meeting currently underway, Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of Cambodia, demonstrated her active engagement by personally extending a warm and substantive welcome to H.E. Mr. Wang Zhimin, Member of the Standing Committee and Vice Chairman of China's National People's Congress Ethnic Affairs Committee.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Chinese delegation is in Cambodia for a working visit from July 15 to 18, 2025, a clear indication of the enduring and strategic ties between the two nations. This focused attention amidst a busy schedule underscores Cambodia's commitment to strengthening its key international partnerships.
The afternoon meeting at the National Assembly Palace was characterised by a clear affirmation of the "iron-clad friendship" that firmly binds Cambodia and China. Samdech Khuon Sudary conveyed her sincere appreciation for the delegation's presence, underscoring that the visit not only reinforces parliamentary collaboration but also reciprocates a cordial invitation from H.E. Pa Socheatvong, Chairman of Cambodia's National Assembly Commission on Education, Youth, Sport, Culture, Religious Affairs, Fine Arts, and Tourism. Samdech articulated a strong expectation that the visit would yield tangible outcomes and foster positive, lasting memories, further cementing the bilateral relationship.
Samdech highlighted the historically unique and long-standing nature of the relationship between Cambodia and China, a bond diligently nurtured across generations. She reiterated that this profound friendship was meticulously built by the visionary leaders of the past, including His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk and his esteemed Chinese counterparts, Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai.
The historical connection between Cambodia and China continues to deepen through the concerted efforts of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate, and Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Together, they are working in very close coordination with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Their collective efforts have led to the launch of the "Diamond Cooperation and Action Plan 2024-2028," a strategic blueprint designed to elevate bilateral ties and foster a high-quality, high-standard Cambodia-China community with a shared future. The relationship notably ascended to its highest level following President Xi Jinping's historic state visit to Cambodia in April 2025.
A cornerstone of this robust partnership is China's consistent development assistance and support, which has been pivotal in Cambodia's socio-economic growth and the reinforcement of its political independence and ownership. China is Cambodia's largest bilateral donor, with significant contributions to infrastructure projects such as the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, as well as crucial support in the energy and agricultural sectors. This aid, totaling approximately US$17.7 billion to date, underscores a shared understanding that "the success of China is the success of Cambodia and the success of Cambodia is the success of China." Both nations recognise the imperative of a strong, reciprocal relationship for sustained mutual support.
H.E. Wang Zhimin responded to Samdech's warm welcome by expressing profound gratitude for the Cambodian National Assembly's hospitality and the opportunity for productive discussions. He reaffirmed China's unwavering commitment to the "iron-clad friendship" that has historically bound the two nations, emphasising that these strong ties are a testament to the foresight of past leaders and the diligent efforts of current generations.
He underscored China's steadfast support for Cambodia's development path, noting Beijing's view of Cambodia as a crucial partner in regional stability and prosperity. "The vision of an all-weather Cambodia-China community with a shared future," Mr. Wang concluded, "is not merely a concept, but a living reality that guides our comprehensive cooperation towards a more peaceful and prosperous world."
Furthermore, China consistently demonstrates its respect for Cambodia's independence and sovereignty, a principle deeply valued within the Kingdom. In a reciprocal spirit, Cambodia has been an early and strong advocate for China's global initiatives. It was among the first nations to formally embrace the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Action Plan for Building a Cambodia-China Community with a Shared Future in the New Era. This collaborative approach highlights a commitment to mutual learning in areas such as governance and national development, reinforcing a genuinely beneficial and enduring partnership.