Cambodia's deputy PM Sun Chanthol reaffirms 'ironclad' friendship with China

Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol has underscored the country's commitment to strengthening its long-standing partnership with China, saying closer cooperation is essential for Cambodia's sustainable development amid global uncertainty.

Speaking at a ceremony in Phnom Penh marking the 30th anniversary of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, Sun said Cambodia and China share a traditional friendship that is steadfast, trustworthy and forward-looking, rooted in mutual respect, non-interference, equality and pragmatic cooperation. He stressed that Cambodia attaches great importance to deepening what he described as an "ironclad" friendship with China.

Quoting a Cambodian proverb "one tree does not make a house," Sun said Cambodia cannot achieve sustainable development on its own and needs to work hand in hand with China. 

He noted that the bilateral relationship is reflected not only in high-level exchanges and cooperation agreements, but also in tangible benefits such as job creation, skills training and expanded opportunities for Cambodian families and youth.

Sun highlighted the challenges facing the world today, including rapid technological change, climate pressures, shifting supply chains and a complex geopolitical environment, stressing that building an all-weather Cambodia–China community with a shared future in the new era is both meaningful and necessary.

He said the two sides have agreed to formulate and implement action plans to advance the "Diamond Hexagon" cooperation framework, in line with consensus reached by the two countries' leaders, to promote mutually beneficial cooperation.

Sun also praised the Belt and Road Initiative for boosting Cambodia's connectivity and competitiveness, helping transform the country from one of potential to one of development. He called for higher-quality, broader and more sustainable Chinese investment, while pledging continued efforts by Cambodia to improve its business environment, enhance transparency and expand dialogue with Chinese enterprises.