Cambodia, China Seek Deeper Ties Through Track II Diplomacy

Cambodia, China Seek Deeper Ties Through Track II Diplomacy

PHNOM PENH, Aug. 21, 2026 — Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has described a visit by a delegation from China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU) as part of efforts to further strengthen what he called the “ironclad friendship” between Cambodia and China.

Hun Sen made the remarks during a meeting on Thursday with Gao Fei, president of China Foreign Affairs University, who led the university delegation on a visit to Cambodia.

According to Senate spokesman Chea Thirith, Hun Sen said the delegation’s visit would contribute to strengthening bilateral friendship and cooperation.

Gao praised Cambodia’s rapid development and highlighted peace and stability as important factors underpinning the country’s economic progress. He also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet Hun Sen and the Cambodian delegation.

A key focus of the visit was the development of Track II diplomacy, aimed at facilitating dialogue and exchanges of views outside formal government-to-government channels.

Gao said the initiative could contribute to efforts to support a peaceful resolution of the Cambodia-Thailand border crisis.

Hun Sen welcomed the proposal and praised CFAU’s role in organising Track II diplomatic dialogue. He also expressed appreciation for China’s broader support for resolving the Cambodia-Thailand border issue through peaceful means.

The former prime minister described current Cambodia-China relations as a comprehensive strategic partnership and a “shared destiny community” in the new era.

The meeting also comes as Cambodia and Thailand continue efforts to address their border dispute through diplomatic and peaceful mechanisms, with China among the countries supporting dialogue and a negotiated resolution.