Cambodia backs advancing ASEAN-China relationship

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen (Photo: heraldstandard)

Phnom Penh (VNA) – Cambodia expressed its support for lifting the ASEAN-China relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, within the framework of the Special Summit to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations, which was held via teleconference on November 22.

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Global Development Initiative, considering this huge support to developing countries to spur socio-economic growth after COVID-19 and promote human rights through poverty reduction and sustainable development.

The PM said he hopes that the initiative will supplement and support the comprehensive strategic partnership.

He suggested strengthening regional connectivity in the spirit of the ASEAN-China Joint Statement, and in line with the 2025 Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity and the Belt and Road Initiative.

China and ASEAN should make greater efforts in maximising the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to serve economic growth for a long run and bring about joint prosperity in accordance with the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership Vision 2030, he said.

Hun Sen also stressed the significance of maintaining the multilateral system to boost cooperation across spheres, and tackle common challenges in the region and the world at large./.

VNA