Intl conference on Cambodia-China ties held in Cambodia

The 4th International Conference on the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations during the lifetime of late Cambodian King Norodom Sihanouk was held in Cambodia on Wednesday, aiming to remember the achievements he had made in building Cambodia-China ties, officials said.

The two-day forum, organized by the Confucius Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, was attended by some 120 people, who are researchers, historians, professors and students, said Khlot Thyda, president of the Royal Academy of Cambodia.

Ten speakers, including 3 Cambodian experts, 5 former Chinese ambassadors to Cambodia, and 2 Chinese academics, would share their knowledge about the establishment and development of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations during the forum, she said.

"The conference is aimed to further deepen friendly relations between the two countries and to promote the excellent ties among younger generations," she said.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the conference, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet Minister Sok An said the Sino- Cambodian diplomatic ties were established on July 19, 1958 between then-Prince Norodom Sihanouk and former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai and President Mao Zedong.

"The forum will provide opportunities to researchers, professors, and students to share views and experience, and to explore deeper understanding about the establishment, evolution, and importance of the Cambodia-China diplomatic ties," he said.

He said that following the guidance of Norodom Sihanouk, the current Cambodian government, led by Prime Minister Hun Sen, has continued to strengthen and expand diplomatic relations and cooperation between Cambodia and China, and the ties reached the level of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation in 2010.

"Cambodia is China's good brother, neighbor, friend and partner, " Sok An said. "The Cambodian government continues to provide staunch support for the one-China policy."

Meanwhile, he encouraged researchers to study, compile, and promote the histories, cultures, languages and diplomatic relations of the two countries among the peoples from all walks of life.

King Norodom Sihanouk died of illness at the age of 90 in Beijing on Oct. 15, 2012.

Chinese ambassador to Cambodia Bu Jianguo said the conference was essential to promote the history of Sino-Cambodian relations among the younger generations.

"Norodom Sihanouk was a revered king for the Cambodian people as well as the Chinese people," she said. "He had laid the foundation for Cambodia and China to build and expand friendly relations and cooperation in all fields, especially in politics, economics, and culture."

The ambassador said the ties and cooperation between China and Cambodia have become stronger and stronger after having gone through numerous vicissitudes in modern times.