VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced China’s commitment to enhancing the “Diamond Hexagon” cooperation framework with Cambodia, aiming to deepen the China-Cambodia community for a shared future. His remarks came during a meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on the sidelines of the East Asia cooperation leaders’ meetings in Vientiane.
Li emphasized the strong friendship between the two nations, stating that their collaboration has entered a new era characterized by high quality and standards, guided by the strategic vision of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Cambodian leadership.
He reaffirmed China’s support for Cambodia’s development path and its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. Li expressed China’s desire to foster a lasting friendship and strengthen mutual trust, facilitating mutually beneficial cooperation.
The Premier outlined plans to align development initiatives, including accelerating the integration of China’s Belt and Road Initiative with Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy. He highlighted the importance of implementing a new action plan for their shared future and proposed enhancing practical cooperation through high-quality projects.
Li called for expedited efforts in formulating a cooperation plan for the “Industrial Development Corridor” and advancing the China-Cambodia railway project. He also encouraged collaboration on the “Fish and Rice Corridor,” infrastructure, and energy sectors to achieve tangible outcomes.
Moreover, Li encouraged Chinese enterprises to invest in Cambodia and indicated an eagerness to import more quality agricultural products from the nation, reinforcing multilateral coordination to protect shared strategic interests.
In response, Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged the historical ties forged by past leaders and expressed gratitude for China’s enduring support of Cambodia’s economic and social development. He reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to a friendly policy towards China, upholding the one-China principle and acknowledging China’s stance on issues related to Taiwan, Xizang, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong.
Hun Manet pledged to implement the “Diamond Hexagon” cooperation framework, enhance collaboration on the “Industrial Development Corridor” and “Fish and Rice Corridor,” and deepen partnerships across various sectors, including agriculture, energy, and law enforcement to combat transnational crimes.
Both leaders underscored their dedication to advancing the Cambodia-China community with a shared future, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.