Xi Jinping Concludes Southeast Asia Tour in Cambodia, Pledges Economic Support Amid Rising US Tariffs
Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up his three-nation Southeast Asia tour with a two-day state visit to Cambodia, signing 37 cooperation documents and urging resistance to protectionism as both nations face economic challenges from US tariffs. The visit underscores China's strategic pivot to strengthen regional alliances through infrastructure investment and trade partnerships.
Xi's Cambodia Visit Solidifies "Ironclad Friendship" Amid Economic Pressures
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Phnom Penh on Thursday for a two-day state visit to Cambodia, marking his first visit to the country since 2016 and concluding his three-nation Southeast Asia tour that included stops in Vietnam and Malaysia. Upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, Xi was formally greeted by Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni before embarking on a packed diplomatic schedule NPR1.
The high-profile visit resulted in the signing of 37 documents covering investment, trade, and finance, highlighting the deepening economic ties between the two nations Reuters2. During his meetings with Cambodian officials, Xi emphasized the need to "resist protectionism" in what analysts view as a direct response to US tariffs that threaten both economies.
"We will unswervingly support Cambodia's development," Xi stated during official meetings with Prime Minister Hun Manet and other Cambodian leaders Reuters2. The Chinese president extolled the positive impact of past Chinese infrastructure projects in Cambodia, which have included roads, airports, and other significant developments.
Historic Relations and Cultural Ties Emphasized
In a symbolic meeting that highlighted the historical dimension of China-Cambodia relations, Xi met with Cambodia's Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk at the Royal Palace, praising her as "a witness and promoter of the China-Cambodia friendship" Xinhua3.
"Cambodia's King Father Norodom Sihanouk was a banner of the China-Cambodia friendship," Xi remarked, adding that together with the elder generation of Chinese leaders, "he personally forged an unbreakable ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia" Xinhua3.
The Queen Mother responded by calling Xi "the greatest friend of Cambodia" and expressed pleasure in seeing the friendship forged by previous generations continuing to strengthen Xinhua3.
Cambodia Seeks Further Chinese Economic Support
Cambodian officials used the visit to seek additional support for major infrastructure projects, particularly the ambitious 180-kilometer Funan Techo Canal. "We expect more cooperation including on infrastructure development," said Meas Soksensan, spokesman for the Cambodian finance ministry Reuters2.
The canal project, estimated to cost $1.7 billion, has seen fluctuations in China's financial commitment. While China initially pledged to cover 100% of the costs, that figure has reportedly been revised to 49% Reuters2.
Prime Minister Hun Manet has previously described Beijing as "an important and indispensable friend of Cambodia that has helped support the country's economic and social development" NPR1. At the inauguration of a Chinese-funded road, he called China "a first-class partner country," highlighting achievements like the Chinese-named Angkor Siem Reap Airport and a Phnom Penh ring road named after Xi NPR1.
Expert Analysis: Strategic Motivations Behind Regional Outreach
Analysts have characterized Xi's Southeast Asia tour as a "charm offensive" aimed at reinforcing China's influence in a region significantly impacted by US tariff policies Reuters2.
"China is presenting itself as a source of stability and certainty as Southeast Asia scrambles to respond to tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump," noted regional experts cited in media reports NPR1.
However, some observers have questioned the substantive outcomes of the visit. A Cambodia-based Western diplomat commented, "Lots of flags, lots of MoUs and lots of bromances, probably not a lot of substance," referring to the non-binding nature of many memoranda of understanding signed during such visits Reuters2.
The timing of Xi's visit is particularly significant as it coincides with increased economic pressures on Southeast Asian nations due to US trade policies. China has been leveraging this situation to expand its economic and political influence in the region, experts suggest.
Economic Interdependence and Trade Growth
China currently stands as Cambodia's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $15 billion in 2024, representing nearly 30% of Cambodia's total trade volume NPR1. This economic relationship, while substantial, heavily favors Beijing in the trade balance.
Cambodia's rapid economic growth in recent decades has been fueled largely by Chinese investment, particularly in infrastructure and development projects. The country now faces significant challenges from US tariffs on clothing and footwear exports, sectors that are crucial to its export-oriented economy Reuters2.
Future Implications: Regional Alliances in Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
Xi's visit to Cambodia, as the final stop on his Southeast Asia tour, reflects China's strategic priorities in cultivating strong regional allies amid increasing competition with the United States. The deepening economic ties between China and Cambodia are likely to have lasting implications for regional power dynamics.
For Cambodia, the relationship offers crucial economic support and infrastructure development at a time when US tariffs threaten key export sectors. However, this dependence also raises questions about Cambodia's autonomy in regional and international affairs.
The "ironclad friendship" between China and Cambodia, as described by officials from both countries, appears set to strengthen further as they navigate shared challenges in the global economic landscape. Will this deepening relationship reshape Southeast Asian geopolitics, or will it prompt other regional powers to seek more balanced approaches to engagement with both China and the United States?
