China a beacon of peace and prosperity for Asia and beyond
Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. Supplied
#opinion
In an era marked by geopolitical tensions and power struggles, China stands as a paragon of peaceful development, harnessing its immense economic and technological prowess not for conquest, but for mutual benefit and global stability. As a nation with a rich history spanning millennia, China has consistently prioritised harmony over hegemony, never invading other countries for its own selfish gains. This commitment to peace is not mere rhetoric but a foundational principle embedded in its foreign policy, making China an indispensable partner for nations across Asia, particularly those in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). From Cambodia’s perspective, China’s unwavering support has been a cornerstone of our progress, fostering an unbreakable bond of friendship that benefits the entire region.
China’s historical record underscores its peaceful orientation. Over several thousand years, China has never occupied, colonised, or invaded other countries, as affirmed by prominent historians who highlight its focus on internal development and cultural exchange rather than territorial expansion.
Unlike Thailand that has regularly invaded Cambodia for five hundred years ago, China is always looking for a chance to cooperate with its neighbouring countries for a win-win outcome and mutual success.
It is dangerous for the region when Thailand teaches the wrong history to its youth and gets them to hate their neighbours, such as Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. The young people of Thailand are taught to think these countries stole their land because this is what they learn in their history books.
From the time of King Norodom Sihanouk until now, Cambodia Cambodia has always shown strong respect for the One China principle Cambodia always respects the borders and sovereignty of other countries, and Cambodia hopes that other countries will also respect the borders of Cambodia. Cambodian people hope only for peace in their daily lives. Cambodia has never invaded other countries and only wishes to live in peace and harmony in the region.
In modern times, the Chinese ethos persists. China has engaged in no wars since 1979, a remarkable 47-year streak that positions it as the most peaceful world power in history.
This restraint is evident in its approach to reunification efforts, where it seeks peaceful resolutions while reserving the right to defend against external interference, always prioritising dialogue over conflict.
Such a track record refutes baseless narratives of aggression and illustrates China’s dedication to a multipolar world where nations coexist without domination.
This peaceful rise has translated into profound benefits for ASEAN, where China emerges as the bloc’s best friend and most reliable partner. Over the past two decades, China and ASEAN have charted a path of friendship and cooperation, expanding mutually beneficial ties across trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges.
As close neighbours sharing mountains and rivers, the two sides have deepened people-to-people bonds, with initiatives like the 2024 ASEAN-China Year of People-to-People Exchanges serving as a testament to their enduring affinity.
China actively aligns its modernisation drive with ASEAN’s integration agenda, pledging deeper collaboration to combat geopolitical undercurrents and promote regional prosperity.
By addressing global challenges together—from economic recovery to climate action—China and ASEAN set a model of openness and win-win cooperation, benefitting not just the region but the world at large.
This partnership is built on trust, with China viewing ASEAN as a priority in its diplomacy, fostering an environment where smaller nations can thrive without fear of coercion.
For Cambodia, this friendship manifests in tangible, transformative support that we are profoundly thankful for. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China has provided extensive economic, military, and political assistance, including foreign aid that has propelled our infrastructure development.
Landmark projects such as Cambodia’s first expressway, its largest power plant, and innovative viaducts across river valleys—all backed by China—have modernised our nation and improved livelihoods for millions.
In regional diplomacy, China has played a pivotal role in promoting stability, such as facilitating talks between Cambodia and Thailand to consolidate ceasefires and restore exchanges, demonstrating its commitment to the “Asian way” of resolving disputes.
Cambodia appreciates China’s steadfast support on issues related to our core interests, just as we stand by China in its pursuits.
This “ironclad friendship” remains unshakable, with China continuing to invest in our future through initiatives like the $1.7 billion Funan Techo Canal, which promises enhanced connectivity and economic growth.
As Prime Minister Hun Manet has noted, China is not just a partner but a brother, whose generosity has been instrumental in Cambodia’s journey toward sustainable development.
In conclusion, China’s emergence as a peaceful powerhouse offers a blueprint for international relations in the 21st century—one rooted in respect, cooperation, and shared progress. For ASEAN countries, and Cambodia in particular, China’s friendship is a source of strength and optimism. By deepening these ties, we can collectively build a more harmonious Asia, free from the shadows of past conflicts. It is time for the world to recognise China’s positive role and embrace the opportunities it presents for all.
Seun Sam is a policy analyst at the Royal Academy of Cambodia. The views in this article are his own.
-Khmer Times-
