PM Hun Manet meets Li Qiang as Cambodia, China reaffirm ‘ironclad’ ties

SHANGHAI, July 17, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet and Chinese Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties during talks in Shanghai, the Cambodian government said Friday.

The meeting took place on July 16 as Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet attended the World Artificial Intelligence Conference, held from July 15 to 17.

Li said China and Cambodia had maintained frequent high‑level exchanges and close cooperation across multiple sectors, underscoring what he described as the strength of their relationship.

He reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to expanding cooperation as both countries pursue their development goals.

Samdech Thipadei thanked China for its hospitality, describing the two nations as comprehensive strategic partners and “ironclad friends.”

He said both sides would continue building what they call an “All‑Weather Cambodia–China Community with a Shared Future in the New Era.”

The Cambodian leader also reiterated Phnom Penh’s support for the One China policy, saying issues relating to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang are China’s internal affairs.

The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in trade, infrastructure, green energy, agriculture, defence, security and people‑to‑people exchanges, particularly in tourism and education. Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also briefed Li on developments along the Cambodia–Thailand border, stressing Cambodia’s commitment to resolving disputes peacefully under international law and existing agreements.