Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Cambodia on Thursday, seeking to bolster ties with regional allies amidst a trade threat from the US. The two-day visit comes as China and the US engage in massive trade tensions, with the US imposing 145% tariffs on Chinese goods.
Xi’s meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet is expected to focus on strengthening their diplomatic relationship, which has been marked by significant investment in infrastructure projects. China has invested billions of dollars in roads and airports, while Cambodia celebrates 67 years of diplomatic ties.
The visit also comes as Cambodia faces pressure from the US over Chinese-linked scam centers operating in the country. However, Beijing praises Cambodia’s efforts to deport Taiwanese citizens involved in the scams, following the “one-China principle.” The move has helped ease tensions between the two countries.
Xi Jinping’s Southeast Asia tour has been marked by visits to Malaysia and Vietnam, as China seeks to deepen its influence in the region. With trade tensions escalating between China and the US, Xi’s visit to Cambodia is a significant development in the complex web of alliances and rivalries in the region.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/chinas-xi-jinping-in-cambodia-amid-trump-trade-tensions/a-72269874