Phnom Penh (FN), Apr. 17 – Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended during his visit and reaffirmed China’s support for Cambodia’s development, with particular emphasis on the Funan Techo Canal project.

Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen met Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday (Apr. 17) at the Peace Palace.

During the meeting, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, on behalf of himself and the entire Cambodian people, warmly welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping on his second state visit to Cambodia, the first having taken place in 2016.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen described President Xi Jinping as a special guest of Cambodia in 2025 and noted that hosting him again is a significant and meaningful occasion. He underlined that the visit holds great importance, especially at a time when the world is facing increasing tensions and the risk of a trade war.

Samdech Techo remarked that President Xi’s presence at this critical moment reflects the strong traditional friendship and deepening ironclad ties between the two nations. He underscored that the visit further strengthens cooperation between state institutions and political parties, bringing Cambodia and China even closer. Additionally, he noted that 2025 marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

Samdech Techo further added that President Xi is regarded as an old, trusted, and valued friend of Cambodia, a consistent supporter of the nation as well as of the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), which has held power for the past 46 years.

President Xi Jinping expressed his delight at returning to Cambodia and reuniting with his old friend, Samdech Techo Hun Sen. He also shared his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the Royal Government of Cambodia and the Cambodian people.

President Xi recounted that upon leaving Phnom Penh International Airport, he was deeply touched by the warm reception from Cambodians lining the streets. He noted the joyful expressions and heartfelt smiles that reflected the people’s genuine welcome.

President Xi told Samdech Techo that he was truly pleased by the warm reception, which exemplified the strong and ironclad friendship between the two nations and further inspired the continued growth of their close relationship.

During the meeting, Samdech Techo Hun Sen commended China’s constructive and active role in promoting global peace and sustainable development.

Samdech Techo expressed strong support for China’s global initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisation Initiative. Samdech Techo underlined his firm belief that these efforts would help safeguard global interests, advance global development, and support the achievement of the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly in maintaining peace, security, and harmony.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also highlighted the fruitful cooperation between Cambodia and China, noting the regular and comprehensive communication across all levels and sectors. He stated that such collaboration reflects deep-rooted solidarity and a high level of political trust based on equality, mutual respect for core interests, and opposition to any external interference in the internal affairs of both nations.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen further urged the Chinese side to continue supporting Cambodia’s development, including increased assistance for national development efforts. Additionally, he called for further strengthening of friendship and cooperation within the framework of the Party, the Government, and the people for the mutual benefit of both countries.

Samdech Techo also requested China’s support for all of Cambodia’s development initiatives.

On the occasion, President Xi Jinping reiterated China’s full support for Cambodia’s development, with particular emphasis on the Funan Techo Canal project. He affirmed China’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations across Party and governmental levels and pledged that the Chinese government would assist in training human resources for both the CPP and the Royal Government to contribute to Cambodia’s continued development.

In return, Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed his sincere gratitude for China’s support of the Funan Techo Canal project, noting its crucial role in enhancing Cambodia’s waterway transportation and driving the country’s economic development.
=FRESH NEWS