Cambodia says deportation of Chinese national followed law, denies wrongdoing

Cambodia says deportation of Chinese national followed law, denies wrongdoing

PHNOM PENH, Jan 26, 2026 — Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said on Monday that Cambodia’s decision to revoke the nationality of Chen Zhi and deport him to China was carried out in full accordance with Cambodian law and international legal cooperation frameworks.

In a clarification issued by its spokesperson in response to media inquiries, the ministry said the revocation of Chen Zhi’s Cambodian nationality followed the Law on the Amendment to the Law on Nationality and its implementing sub-decree, which allow citizenship to be withdrawn from naturalised citizens who obtained nationality through forgery or false information.

The ministry said the deportation was a sovereign decision based on the discovery that Chen Zhi had irregularly obtained Cambodian nationality, adding that the action reflected the government’s commitment to the rule of law and should not be misinterpreted.

It said the transfer of individuals under legal procedures was conducted through established mechanisms of mutual legal assistance and judicial cooperation, consistent with Cambodia’s domestic laws and international obligations.

The ministry added that the case underscored Cambodia’s commitment to international cooperation in maintaining peace, stability and socio-economic development, while strengthening efforts to combat transnational crime.