Cambodian commentator discusses China’s role in border ceasefire

Preah Sihanouk Provincial Television, August 28 — On his August 25 Monday Show, Cambodian media commentator and Cambodia–China Journalists Association co-chair Soy Sopheap responded to claims that China had done nothing for Cambodia during the border conflict with Thailand. He said China had helped quietly and Cambodia would remember its support. Soy Sopheap said China and the United States played important roles in pressing for a ceasefire. In his view, all five permanent UN Security Council members helped make the agreement possible and opposition from any one could have prevented it. He said Malaysia, the ASEAN chair, announced the agreement in Kuala Lumpur under US and Chinese oversight. He saw lasting peace for Cambodia as the goal. The joint statement issued by Malaysia identifies Putrajaya as the venue for the July 28 special meeting. Addressing criticism that China did not help when Thailand used advanced weapons, Soy Sopheap said China had stayed calm as Cambodia’s diamond partner and had offered practical help. He cited repairs to damaged homes, purchases of Cambodian cassava and Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s role in bringing the Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers into talks. Soy Sopheap said Chinese assistance with roads, equipment and supplies since 2008 had improved infrastructure and living conditions. He also credited the United States with support in tariffs and economic cooperation, calling China Cambodia’s diamond friend and the United States its gemstone friend. Speaking as co-chair of the journalists’ association, he said Cambodia would remember China’s support and uphold the one-China principle. He credited China with helping Cambodia secure peace and development and reassured Chinese investors and tourists. He said Xi Jinping’s April state visit to Cambodia showed Hun Manet was continuing the political course of his father, Hun Sen, which he described as part of King Father Norodom Sihanouk’s legacy. Compiled by Preah Sihanouk Provincial Television.