By:
• Sao Phal Niseiy

• October 29, 2024 , 5:15 PM

PHNOM PENH — To commemorate King Norodom Sihamoni's 20th coronation anniversary on October 29, the Chinese government presented a gift of 12 Hongqi motorcades. Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin announced on Facebook that these 12 Chinese-made Hongqi cars were being prepared for the King as Cambodia celebrates this significant milestone.

The transfer occurred a few weeks after the announcement of the Chinese government’s provision of vehicles as a gesture of appreciation for His Majesty during his meeting with the Minister of the Royal Palace, Kuy Sophal, on October 11.

While the coronation gift to the Cambodian Monarch demonstrates a legacy of friendship and historical ties between the Cambodian royal family and China built during the reign of the late King Norodom Sihanouk, it also indicates China’s ongoing effort to cement relations with one of its Southeast Asian allies. 

Iron-clad friendship

In addition to the coronation gift, Chinese President Xi Jinping also sent a separate congratulatory message to the King of Cambodia, wishing him well while highlighting the King’s extraordinary contributions to the country’s peace, stability, prosperity, and international exchanges.

“I would like to extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Your Majesty's coronation,” Xi said in his letter. 

The Chinese leader also emphasized the enduring friendship between Cambodia and China, noting the two nations' unwavering support for each other at all times, including challenging and difficult periods.

“I stand ready to work with Your Majesty to enhance strategic guidance of our bilateral relations and deliver more fruitful results of the building of a China-Cambodia Community with a Shared Future,” he added. 

Diplomatic relations between China and Cambodia were established in 1958 and have since strengthened. In 2013, the two nations elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This deepening bond is reflected in increased Chinese aid, investment, tourism, and trade.