Recent meetings between top political figures in Cambodia and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi centered on cooperation on infrastructure, digital technology and green development, as well as cultural exchange, said a leading Cambodian scholar of international relations on Sunday.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamon and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sok Chenda Sophea in the Southeast Asian country's capital of Phnom Penh on Sunday.
Wang is also set to meet with a number of senior officials and co-chair the seventh Meeting of the China-Cambodia Intergovernmental Coordination Committee.
This visit not only celebrates 65 years of diplomatic relations but also the Year of People-to-People Exchange.
"China has been the largest source of foreign direct investment for several consecutive years, making significant contribution to Cambodia's economic growth. Chinese enterprises have invested in various sectors, including transportation, electricity, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, special economic zones, and information and communications," said Kin Phea, director general of the International Relations Institute of Cambodia.
Wang's agenda was packed with cultural and economic discussions aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations. China has long supported Cambodia in building infrastructure and introducing innovative technology, including significant projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Digital economy and transformation is an important topic of discussion between Wang and his Cambodian counterpart. Many ASEAN countries are already adopting technological advancements and artificial intelligence, and Cambodia is showing signs that it wants China's assistance in becoming part of that technological growth.
China's influence in Cambodia is evident through the roads and ports built as part of their development projects. These initiatives are crucial as Cambodia seeks to transform into a nation of smart cities.
"China's digital technology expertise can significantly benefit Cambodia by assisting e-commerce platforms, smart city projects, and e-government, which align with the Cambodia Digital Government policy 2022-2035. Additionally, I think for the environmental sector, China's leadership in renewable energy technology can help Cambodia transition toward cleaner energy sources like solar power projects, promoting energy security, and environmental sustainability. This collaboration could boost Cambodia's global competitiveness," Kin said.