PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA — Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet will pay an official working visit to China. This trip will take place from July 15 to 17, 2026. This special diplomatic mission follows a formal invitation from the Chinese Government. Consequently, the visit aims to inject fresh momentum into the comprehensive strategic partnership between both nations.
Moreover, the upcoming itinerary features a blend of top-tier geopolitical dialogue and private-sector business summits. Additionally, it includes prominent participation in global technology governance forums.
High-Level Bilateral Meetings with Chinese Leadership
During his three-day stay, Prime Minister Hun Manet is scheduled to call on Chinese President Xi Jinping. Therefore, they will review cross-border ties. In addition, the premier will hold a critical bilateral working meeting with Premier Li Qiang.
These executive discussions will map out new execution pathways for the “Diamond Cooperation Framework.” This model focuses on building an all-weather Cambodia-China Community with a shared future.
Furthermore, the premier will travel with a robust, top-tier institutional cabinet. The official Cambodian delegation includes:
- Prak Sokhonn: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
- Sun Chanthol: Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice-Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia.
- Tea Seiha: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence.
Meanwhile, a prominent circle of senior government ministers will also join the travel party. Key representatives of the Cambodian business community will accompany them as well.
Addressing the 2026 World AI Conference in Shanghai
A central milestone of the Cambodian PM Hun Manet working visit to China will take place in Shanghai. Specifically, he will attend the formal Opening Ceremony of the 2026 World AI Conference (WAIC) on July 17, 2026. This international convention is organized under the global banner theme of “AI Partnership for a Brighter Future.” Thus, it serves as an influential stage for cross-border technology policy.
“The prime minister will deliver a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the conference,” confirmed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
As a result, the address will highlight Cambodia’s position on inclusive artificial intelligence integration. It will also discuss emerging tech opportunities for Global South economies. While in Shanghai, Hun Manet will host targeted networking sessions with leaders of the Chinese business community. Consequently, he hopes to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into Cambodia’s manufacturing and digital economy sectors.
Ultimately, this diplomatic mission underscores a mutual commitment to deepening a long-standing regional alliance. By synchronizing direct trade discussions with participation in global technology platforms like WAIC, Cambodia is strategically positioning itself. Therefore, the country can optimize its industrial supply chains and expand its technical capacity alongside China’s evolving digital landscape.
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