PM Hun Manet calls AI ‘the future’ as Cambodia deepens technology cooperation with China

PHNOM PENH, July 21, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has described artificial intelligence as “the present and the future,” saying participation in a China‑led AI cooperation framework will accelerate Cambodia’s technological development and prepare its workforce for the digital economy.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of South East Asia University, Samdech Thipadei urged young people to build skills in the rapidly evolving field.

“Our participation with China’s AI initiative is to strengthen Cambodia’s AI capabilities and support modernization. We firmly stand by the principle of not joining any initiative aimed against another country or bloc,” he said.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet warned that nations failing to adapt to technological change risk falling behind. He said developing Cambodia’s AI sector and scientific workforce would make the country more attractive to foreign investors, particularly in high‑value industries.

Drawing on meetings with leaders from China, Russia, Japan, South Korea and the United States, he noted that most investment proposals now focus on technology‑based industries rather than traditional sectors.

“Most of the investment proposals we receive today are related to technology,” he said, adding that a skilled workforce is essential to attracting such investment.

Samdech Thipadei  said foreign investment in advanced industries would bring modern technologies, AI expertise and skilled professionals to Cambodia, helping to accelerate digital transformation.

He pledged continued government investment in science, technology and AI education to prepare Cambodia’s workforce for future economic opportunities.