Phnom Penh, January 22, 2019 –Cambodia and China will further deepen their bilateral cooperation and relations, according to a special report of the National Television of Kampuchea (TVK).
This commitment was made during a bilateral talk between Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and Chinese President H.E. Xi Jinping in Beijing yesterday afternoon, during Samdech Techo’s official visit in China from Jan. 20 to 23.
Chinese President H.E. Xi Jinping highly valued the official visit of Samdech Techo Hun Sen to China this time, and highlighted the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, recalling that Their Majesties the King and Queen-Mother of Cambodia and himself have attended traditional programmes in China.
H.E. Xi Jinping further stated that the “One Belt, One Road” initiative will continue to strengthen and expand the cooperation with different countries in the region and the world. “Despite changes in international relations, the relationship between China and Cambodia has really provided mutual benefits for both nations,” he added. “Through this, China will continue increasing its cooperation with Cambodia, especially contributing to the development of Cambodia.”
The Chinese leader was convinced that Cambodia will see more success in the next 60 years.
This year, he affirmed, China will continue to import 400,000 tons of Cambodian milled rice and to boost the two-way trade up to US$10 billion by 2023, and provide 4 billion Yuan in grant for Cambodia for three years, from 2019 to 2021.
For his part, Samdech Techo Prime Minister expressed his delight for re-visiting China and thanked the Government and the people of China for their warm hospitality for Their Majesties the King and Queen-Mother of Cambodia.
The Cambodian Premier also briefed the Chinese President on the recent developments in Cambodia, especially the situation after the general elections, the Royal Government’s reform programmes, the country’s efforts in preventing foreign interference in its internal affairs, and the creation of Supreme Consultation and Recommendation Council with the participation of 19 political parties.
Regarding the bilateral relations, Samdech Techo Hun Sen requested the Chinese President to encourage more Chinese investors to Cambodia, and suggested the strengthening of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation between the two countries as well as other existing bilateral mechanisms.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen confirmed his attendance in the 2nd Belt and Road Forum to be held in April 2019 in China.
By Khan Sophirom
