China Pledges Support for Cambodia’s Military Modernisation

PHNOM PENH, April 24, 2026 (KPT) — China has pledged support for Cambodia’s defence modernisation, with both countries agreeing to deepen strategic ties following their first “2+2” dialogue between foreign and defence ministers in Phnom Penh, officials said Friday.

Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha said the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun on April 23 helped strengthen high level relations, deepen political trust and advance what both sides describe as a comprehensive strategic partnership.

He said the talks contributed to building a “Cambodia–China community with a shared future in the new era” and reaffirmed Phnom Penh’s commitment to expanding cooperation while maintaining its One China policy.

According to Seiha, China expressed support for enhancing military cooperation and assisting Cambodia’s defence modernisation, including strengthening capabilities across land, air and maritime domains.

The dialogue also reaffirmed the “ironclad friendship” between the two countries, with pledges to expand collaboration beyond defence into digital development, green growth, supply chains and financial cooperation.

The talks built on existing frameworks, including the “Diamond Cooperation” initiative, and were aimed at reinforcing regional stability and supporting Cambodia’s broader development goals.