AKP Phnom Penh, January 16, 2026 —

H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), granted an exclusive interview to China News Service (CNS), a major state-run media outlet of the People's Republic of China, at the CDC headquarters in Phnom Penh this morning.

According to the CDC, the interview focused on reflecting Cambodia’s socio-economic progress, the investment climate, and the enduring strength of bilateral relations between the two nations.

At the commencement of the interview, H.E. Deputy Prime Minister, on behalf of the Royal Government and the people of Cambodia, expressed his most profound gratitude to the Government and the people of China, particularly to President Xi Jinping, for the introduction of the "Belt and Road Initiative" (BRI). He emphasised that this initiative has played an indispensable role in driving Cambodia's socio-economic development through the construction of major physical infrastructure, which serves as the vital economic arteries of the nation.

Regarding the trade and investment landscape, H.E. Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that China remains Cambodia’s largest source of foreign direct investment. He underscored: "Cambodia welcomes all legal investments from all countries without discrimination," while urging Chinese investors to further explore and capitalise on investment opportunities in Cambodia. He noted that Cambodia serves as a regional hub and offers numerous incentives under the new Law on Investment.

For the year 2026, Cambodia expects to welcome an increasing number of Chinese tourists, who will serve as a key driving force for the local economy. Marking the 68th Anniversary of Cambodia-China Diplomatic Relations, H.E. Deputy Prime Minister recalled the historic ties pioneered by the late King-Father Norodom Sihanouk and the previous generation of Chinese leaders. He noted that these ties were further solidified by Samdech Techo Hun Sen and continue to be nurtured under the leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, with the goal of strengthening this "Ironclad Friendship" to remain eternal.

Furthermore, H.E. Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering stance in supporting the "One China Policy." Additionally, under the wise leadership of Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister, Cambodia is resolutely committed to combating and suppressing all forms of illegal activities, particularly online scamming, to ensure a safe, vibrant, and secure investment and tourism environment in Cambodia for all visitors and investors alike.

AKP