Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Southeast Asia, with a key stop in Cambodia from April 17 to 18, is a significant moment in the bilateral relationship between China and Cambodia. This visit, which is part of Xi’s broader tour of Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, underscores China’s growing influence in the region. Experts believe this diplomatic engagement is not just a reflection of historical ties but a strategic move to further cement China’s economic and political partnerships in Southeast Asia.
Strategic Milestone for Bilateral Relations
Xi’s visit to Cambodia marks the continuation of a strong and enduring partnership that has seen Cambodia become one of China’s most trusted and aligned partners in ASEAN. Since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1958, Cambodia and China have steadily deepened their ties, particularly in the realms of trade, infrastructure development, and political collaboration. In recent years, China has played an essential role in Cambodia’s economic growth, providing crucial investment and support for infrastructure development.
The visit also aligns with Cambodia’s strategic goals of integrating further into the regional and global economic landscape. As part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Cambodia continues to benefit from the Chinese-backed projects that have transformed its infrastructure, laying the foundation for continued growth and economic stability.
Massive Chinese Investments
Cambodia’s relationship with China has been defined by substantial Chinese investments, which have helped reshape the country’s infrastructure over the past two decades. Key projects, such as the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, serve as prime examples of China’s role in Cambodia’s economic development. This zone has attracted numerous Chinese firms, significantly boosting Cambodia’s manufacturing sector and creating thousands of jobs.
In addition to economic zones, China has been instrumental in developing critical infrastructure in Cambodia. Major projects include the construction of highways, bridges, airports, and hydropower plants that are transforming Cambodia’s transportation and energy sectors. One notable project is the new international airport in Phnom Penh, set to open in July 2025, which is expected to increase Cambodia’s tourism capacity and serve as a hub for regional connectivity.
These investments are part of a broader strategy to integrate Cambodia into the regional economic network and ensure its continued growth. As Kevin Nauen, Dean of Social Sciences and International Relations at Pannasastra University of Cambodia, notes, “This partnership has resulted in enormous Chinese investment, transforming Cambodia’s infrastructure and significantly contributing to economic growth over the last two decades.” With such investments, China has become Cambodia’s largest foreign investor, contributing to the country’s rising economic trajectory.
The Economic Benefits of Cambodia-China Cooperation
The economic cooperation between Cambodia and China extends far beyond infrastructure. China has been the largest foreign investor in Cambodia for years, and the two countries’ trade continues to grow. Cambodia’s active participation in the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and its alignment with the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) have further boosted trade between the two nations.
For Cambodia, the economic relationship with China provides an opportunity for growth without the political strings often attached by Western countries. Chinese investments come with fewer political conditions, allowing Cambodia to benefit from capital inflows while maintaining its sovereignty. This model of cooperation, based on mutual respect, offers a contrast to other foreign relationships where aid and investment often come with political and economic demands.
The economic partnership has also led to a stronger integration into China’s global supply chain, with increased exports to China, particularly in agriculture, textiles, and raw materials. This growing economic interdependence continues to provide tangible benefits for Cambodia, both in terms of development and job creation.
New Era of Cambodia-China Cooperation
Xi Jinping’s visit to Cambodia is expected to expand the scope of bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on technological advancements, green energy, and trade. Cambodia and China have already made strides in infrastructure, but the next phase of their collaboration is likely to focus on enhancing Cambodia’s technological capacity and exploring green energy initiatives. Discussions will likely include projects such as the Funan Techno Canal and the promotion of clean energy technologies.
As Thong Mengdavid, a geopolitical analyst at the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy, points out, Xi’s visit will elevate Cambodia-China relations to a new level of cooperation. He says, “The visit signals the call for more enhanced and comprehensive cooperation between Cambodia and China, ranging from leader-to-leader, party-to-party, government-to-government, and people-to-people.”
This partnership is poised to drive Cambodia’s modernization efforts while offering new avenues for Chinese investment. The growing emphasis on green energy and technology could also lead to new projects in Cambodia, creating a sustainable development model that aligns with global trends in environmental responsibility.
A Strong Future for Cambodia-China Relations
The upcoming visit by Xi Jinping to Cambodia is a reflection of the growing strength of the two nations’ relationship. As Cambodia continues to benefit from Chinese investments and infrastructure development, both countries are working together to chart a path toward shared prosperity. With China’s support, Cambodia is positioned to remain one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and rapidly developing economies. This visit not only reaffirms the long-standing partnership between China and Cambodia but sets the stage for even deeper collaboration in the years ahead.
