Kampot (FN), Apr. 21 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet clarified that the recent state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Cambodia from 17-18 April strongly counters allegations made by some opposition groups and foreign media outlets that Cambodia-China relations are weakening and that China no longer values the seventh-mandate government led by Samdech Thipadei.

The premier spoke on Monday (Apr. 21) during the inauguration of the Kampot International Tourist Port.

Amidst criticism suggesting that the Cambodian government is in disarray and losing support from key allies like China, Samdech Thipadei was asked why he had not responded directly to such accusations.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, “They asked me why I did not respond or explain the matter. I asked, why should I? Some people do not listen. Even if they do, they do not understand or act responsibly. We do not need to keep explaining. What matters is the reality. Those who claimed China has distanced itself from the new government — I told them to calm down. While the picture is clear, talking further will only embarrass them.”

Samdech Thipadei underlined that the Chinese president’s visit sends a strong political message — one that reaffirms and elevates the Cambodia-China relationship as a “community with a shared future.” This reflects a partnership grounded in mutual respect, sovereignty, non-interference, and shared development goals, regardless of challenges.

Samdech Thipadei added that President Xi’s presence in Cambodia does not mean the kingdom is becoming a satellite or puppet of China. Rather, it signifies a mutual commitment to develop together. This message is profound. If analysts cannot grasp its significance, perhaps they should consider changing professions. Instead of spending time responding to baseless criticisms, we focus on producing visible achievements.

It is worth noting that during President Xi’s state visit, a total of 37 cooperation agreements were signed in the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Additionally, five agreements and contracts related to the Funan Techo Canal Project were officially signed between Cambodia and Chinese private companies.
=FRESH NEWS