PHNOM PENH: On April 16th, an Ad Hoc Cambodia-U.S. Bilateral Relations Coordination Working Group, led by Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol and Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul, convened virtually with U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer. This meeting was a direct response to Prime Minister Hun Manet’s April 4th letter to then-President Donald J. Trump, expressing Cambodia’s desire to engage in trade negotiations with the United States.
The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral trade and investment cooperation, emphasizing the importance of open and constructive dialogue as a foundation for achieving a fair and balanced trade relationship. Both sides committed to further meetings in the near future. A government press release reiterated Prime Minister Hun Manet’s commitment to close cooperation with the U.S. to foster mutually beneficial trade and investment.
Simultaneously, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to arrive in Cambodia today for a state visit. Prime Minister Hun Manet warmly welcomed President Xi, highlighting the enduring historical friendship between Cambodia and China. He emphasized the continued expansion of relations and cooperation across all sectors.
Prime Minister Hun Manet noted that the 67-year relationship, forged during Norodom Sihanouk’s era and further developed by Hun Sen and the current government, has reached the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership and “ironclad friendship.” He pointed to the ongoing achievements within the Diamond Cooperation Framework and the shared goal of building a Community with a Shared Future, based on mutual respect and non-interference.
Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged China’s pivotal role in Cambodia’s socio-economic development, particularly in infrastructure, investment, and tourism. He also credited the partnership with enhancing Cambodia’s independence, national defense, and international standing.
Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his anticipation for discussions with President Xi to chart a course for future cooperation.
President Xi Jinping’s visit, from April 17th to 18th, 2025, at the invitation of King Norodom Sihamoni, will include Royal Audiences with the King and Queen-Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk. He will also meet with Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet to discuss bilateral ties and regional and international issues.
The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation described the visit as a “milestone,” reinforcing the traditional friendship and the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. Several agreements are expected to be signed during the visit to further promote cooperation across various sectors. This marks President Xi Jinping’s second state visit to Cambodia, following his first in 2016.