China and Cambodia held their first 2 plus 2 meeting on Wednesday in Phnom Penh. Specifically, foreign ministers and defense ministers participated in this China Cambodia strategic dialogue. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Defense Minister Dong Jun co chaired the session. Similarly, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn and Defense Minister Tea Seiha joined them. Consequently, the two sides exchanged in depth views on bilateral relations and security issues.
This China Cambodia strategic dialogue reached a broad consensus on several fronts. For instance, the talks covered political cooperation and defense security matters. Additionally, international and regional situations also received significant attention. Wang Yi stated that China wants to develop this mechanism into a strategic platform. The platform will enhance political and defense security cooperation between both nations. Furthermore, it will also serve as a key instrument for cementing mutual assistance.
Wang noted that China supports Cambodia and Thailand in implementing their recent consensus. The three countries met at the China Cambodia Thailand Fuxian Meeting previously. Therefore, Cambodia and Thailand should use existing bilateral mechanisms effectively. They need to strengthen dialogue and rebuild mutual trust. Moreover, improving relations between Cambodia and Thailand remains a regional priority. As a result, China will provide platforms for more comprehensive communication between them.
The China Cambodia strategic dialogue also covered development and humanitarian support. China will continue supporting Cambodia’s efforts to accelerate development. Improving people’s livelihoods remains a shared priority for both nations. Specifically, China will provide humanitarian support for Cambodian border residents. Resettlement programs and poverty reduction demonstration projects will receive assistance. Wang added that China will deepen cooperation under four major global initiatives.
These initiatives aim to build an Asian security model with shared security. Seeking common ground while reserving differences guides this approach. Dialogue and consultation remain the preferred methods for resolving disputes. Additionally, China also wants to promote a more just and equitable global governance system. Defense Minister Dong Jun said China will deepen military security cooperation with Cambodia.
Sokhonn stated that China is Cambodia’s most trusted friend. He expressed gratitude for China’s comprehensive support over the years. Furthermore, Cambodia firmly adheres to the one China principle without exception. The country supports all efforts by China to achieve national reunification. Similarly, Tea Seiha said Cambodia will actively explore new cooperation avenues.
Both sides agreed to deepen law enforcement and defense cooperation. Specifically, they will jointly combat online gambling and telecom fraud activities. Cybersecurity protection also received mutual commitment from both nations. The China Cambodia strategic dialogue concluded with several key agreements. Both sides underscored supporting regional dispute resolution through dialogue. Additionally, they jointly oppose unilateral bullying and power politics. Upholding global free trade and international fairness remains a shared goal. Consequently, future meetings under this 2 plus 2 mechanism will likely continue. The strategic dialogue has now become a regular platform for coordination. Therefore, China and Cambodia will maintain close communication on all discussed issues.
