In a statement released on 26 May 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister SOK Chenda Sophea concluded a fruitful visit to China from 23-25 May 2024.
The visit marked His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea's first official trip to the People's Republic of China, which aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and promote cooperation in various sectors. The Chinese leadership, including Minister of Foreign Affairs WANG Yi, welcomed Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea warmly, indicating a positive and cooperative spirit in their discussions.
During his visit, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea paid a courtesy call on Vice President Han Zheng prior to holding bilateral talks with His Excellency WANG Yi. The two Foreign Ministers engaged in an in-depth discussion covering key areas of cooperation, including politics, security and defense, trade and investment, energy, infrastructure development, people-to-people exchange, education, tourism, and culture.
The visit was marked by several significant agreements, including the effective implementation of the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement, which aims to promote growing trade volume between the two countries. The Chinese side also expressed interest in expanding special economic zones in Cambodia and providing technical and vocational training to increase the skilled workforce in the Kingdom.
Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea met with around 250 Cambodian students studying in Beijing and Tianjin, China, where he conveyed best wishes from the Prime Minister, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet. He also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest with His Excellency Zhang Jianhua, Member of the CPC Leadership Group of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and Chairman of the National Energy Administration.
Key Takeaways:
The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and promote cooperation in various sectors.
The effective implementation of the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement was a significant outcome.
Expanding special economic zones in Cambodia and providing technical training were discussed as potential areas of cooperation.
Regional and international issues, including ASEAN-China, Mekong-Lancang, and United Nations cooperation, were also on the agenda.
Overall, Deputy Prime Minister SOK Chenda Sophea's visit to China marked a positive development in Cambodia's diplomatic efforts, emphasizing the importance of regional and international cooperation in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity.