Xi visits Cambodia, deepens China ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Phnom Penh marking his first visit to Cambodia since 2016 and concluding a three-nation Southeast Asian tour that included stops in Vietnam and Malaysia.

During the state visit, the two nations signed and exchanged 37 documents covering investment, trade, finance, education, health, and tourism, though Cambodian officials did not provide specific details about their content or whether they included binding financial commitments.

Xi emphasized China's support for Cambodia's strategic autonomy and development, describing the bilateral relationship as that of "ironclad friends." His remarks included opposition to "hegemonism and protectionism," widely interpreted as criticism of recent U.S. tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump's administration that have significantly impacted the region.

The visit underscores China's substantial economic influence in Cambodia, where it has invested billions in infrastructure projects including roads and airports. China remains Cambodia's largest trading partner and investor, with bilateral trade exceeding $15 billion in 2024, and is also the country's largest creditor.

Xi's regional tour is viewed as a diplomatic charm offensive in Southeast Asia, particularly timely as the region grapples with the economic impact of U.S. tariffs. The visit demonstrates China's strategic efforts to reinforce relationships with neighboring countries amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and trade tensions with the United States.

Notably, the visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge's rise to power—a sensitive historical moment given China's past support for the regime. While this anniversary was acknowledged, discussions primarily focused on future cooperation and development initiatives between the two nations.

The meeting signals a continued deepening of China-Cambodia relations and reinforces China's strategic presence in Southeast Asia during a period of regional economic uncertainty.