Cambodia pledges support for One China policy

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (left) shakes hands with Prime Minister Hun Sen on November 10 at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh. SPM

Cambodia reaffirmed the One China policy and opposed separatist activities seeking “Taiwanese independence”, according to a joint communiqué between the government of Cambodia and that of the People’s Republic of China, released on the afternoon of November 11 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The joint communiqué was released during the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Cambodia from November 8 -11, before he attends the ASEAN summit and related meeting.

“Cambodia reaffirmed its resolute adherence to the One China policy and opposition to any actions or remarks undermining China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, any form of separatist activities seeking “Taiwanese independence”, and to external interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states, under any pretext.

“Cambodia supports every Chinese effort to safeguard its core interests and achieve national reunification. The Chinese delegation expressed its appreciation of Cambodia in this regard,” the statement said.

Cambodia and China had reached a strategic comprehensive partnership since 2010.

According to the statement, both countries agreed to designate 2023 as “Cambodia-China Friendship Year”. They will hold a series of joint celebration events to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.