Analysts: Cambodia’s Stance on Taiwan Aligns With Constitution, Not Against China or Japan

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 2, 2025) — Cambodian analysts say the country’s firm position on Taiwan reflects constitutional principles and long-standing foreign-policy commitments, stressing it should not be interpreted as siding with either China or Japan.

Thong Mengdavid, a lecturer at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently reaffirmed Cambodia’s adherence to the One-China policy, describing Taiwan as an internal matter of the People’s Republic of China.

“This reflects Cambodia’s long-standing foreign policy and its call for clarification and dialogue to prevent misunderstandings, signalling that Cambodia does not wish to see tensions rise between China and Japan,” he said.

Mengdavid noted the statement comes as Japan has become more vocal about Taiwan’s security, deepening defense cooperation with the United States and Taiwan.

He said Cambodia’s position is consistent with its Constitution, which stresses sovereignty and non-interference, and with international frameworks such as UN Resolution 2758, which recognizes Beijing as the sole representative of China.

Political analyst Kin Phea said tensions between China and Japan carry direct implications for Cambodia, which maintains close partnerships with both.

He emphasized Cambodia’s consistent stance: neutrality, support for peaceful dialogue and respect for internationally recognized frameworks, including the One-China policy. He described Taiwan as a “red line that cannot be crossed” for China.

Phea added Cambodia’s approach is rooted in clarity, not political calculation, reflecting its broader philosophy of non-interference and sovereignty shaped by its own history of foreign intervention.

In a Nov. 25 statement, Cambodia’s foreign ministry said the country “strongly advocates” peace and stability in the region, reaffirming its “resolute” adherence to the One-China policy and opposition to “any form of Taiwan independence.”