Government spokesman says economic diplomacy driving stronger international partnerships

PHNOM PENH, July 17, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s government says its policy of economic diplomacy is strengthening international partnerships and creating new opportunities for foreign investment, following Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet’s official visit to China.

Government spokesman Pen Bona said the visit demonstrated the Royal Government’s strategy of using high‑level diplomatic engagement to promote Cambodia’s economic interests and deepen cooperation with international partners.

During the trip, Samdech Thipadei attended the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai and held separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang and executives from several leading Chinese companies.

Pen Bona said the meetings highlighted Cambodia’s growing role in regional economic cooperation and reflected efforts to attract investment through diplomatic engagement.

“This is the result of the economic diplomacy of the Royal Government during the seventh legislative term of the National Assembly, led by Prime Minister Hun Manet,” he said.

According to the spokesman, several Chinese companies expressed interest in investing in Cambodia or expanding their operations.

Beijing Star AI proposed cooperation on artificial intelligence projects, including an ASEAN Regional Intelligent Computing Centre and an ASEAN Digital Commerce Operation Centre.

Fujian Jinlu Daily Chemical said it was considering a household products plant, while Yuanda Group expressed interest in education, agriculture and digital technology.

Pen Bona added that Haier Group had partnered with a Cambodian firm to establish the country’s first tablet assembly factory.

CHINALCO was exploring opportunities in mining and infrastructure, while China Energy International was considering cement production, water treatment and renewable energy.

He said the interest shown by Chinese companies reflected the government’s economic diplomacy, which combines political engagement with efforts to promote trade, investment and long‑term cooperation.

Cambodia, he added, would continue to strengthen international partnerships to support sustainable growth and attract quality foreign investment.