(Phnom Penh): Jean-François Tan, Minister Delegate Attached to the Prime Minister, underlined that Cambodia's Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with China is not a military alliance, stressing that safeguarding the country's sovereignty remains Cambodia's sole responsibility.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday (July 17) following Prime Minister Hun Manet's official visit to China from 15–17 July, Jean-François Tan said Cambodia's Constitution mandates a policy of neutrality, preventing the country from entering into military alliances.

"We should not confuse a military alliance with a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," he said. "Cambodia's relationship with China, like its relations with other countries, has never been established as a military alliance because our Constitution requires Cambodia to maintain neutrality. The 'ironclad friendship' does not mean China will replace Cambodia in defending its sovereignty."

He added that protecting national sovereignty is the responsibility of the Cambodian state alone.
 
On the occasion, Jean-François Tan also highlighted China's role as Cambodia's "ironclad friend" and a responsible regional power, saying Beijing has consistently supported peace and stability in Asia. He noted that China played an important role in facilitating dialogue and a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand.
 
Beyond diplomatic support, China has provided humanitarian assistance to displaced civilians and financial aid for the restoration of infrastructure damaged by the conflict.
 
According to Jean-François Tan, these efforts reflect the practical value of the Cambodia–China Ironclad Friendship, the Diamond Hexagon Cooperation Framework, and the vision of building an all-weather Cambodia–China community with a shared future in the new era.
=FRESH NEWS