The state visit of His Excellency President Xi Jinping to the Kingdom of Cambodia marked a moment of great historical and diplomatic importance. With great honor, in the capacity of the Chief of Protocol of the President of the Senate of Cambodia, I also participated in welcoming President Xi, whose gracious demeanor, humility, and warmth left a strong impression on all who were present. His sincere and close engagement made everyone feel genuinely welcomed and respected.
I had the honor of engaging directly with President Xi during the reception. As the Chief of Protocol, I wish to express my sincere appreciation for the longstanding friendship between Cambodia and China, and for the President’s historic visit. It was during this meaningful exchange that I had the honor of sharing that I am currently pursuing a doctoral degree under the Silk Road Talents Program at the China-ASEAN Legal Research Center of Southwest University of Political Science and Law of China In response, President Xi expressed great encouragement and warmly stated, “Southwest University of Political Science and Law is one of the best law universities in China and Many leaders graduated from that law school.” His affirmation reflected strong support for international academic exchange and talent cultivation between Cambodia and China.
President Xi Jinping during his official state visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia
(Source of image: The Cambodia China Times)
As a Cambodian government official and Ph.D. candidate in SWUPL, I am deeply committed to contributing to the enhancement of bilateral cooperation and mutual understanding between our two countries. President Xi’s visit has ushered in a new era of China-Cambodia relations, reaffirming the shared commitment to the full and effective implementation of the Cambodia-China Joint Statement. This joint endeavor extends beyond legal and judicia cooperation to encompass a wide range of strategic areas, including political trust, economic integration, cultural exchange, and human resource development. In particular, judicial cooperation holds great importance not only for Cambodia and China but also for the ASEAN region at large. Strengthening legal frameworks will continue to promote regional integration, uphold the rule of law, and foster a peaceful and inclusive community across Southeast Asia.
The China–ASEAN Legal Research Center, established by the China Law Society and hosted by Southwest University of Political Science and Law, serves as an excellent platform for legal cooperation and exchange. It has had significant influence in ASEAN countries, including Cambodia. China’s experience in the rule of law provides valuable reference for Cambodia’s legislative development. At the 7th China–ASEAN Forum on the Rule of Law in 2025, the Center signed a legislative cooperation agreement with the Senate of Cambodia. I will actively participate in and promote the implementation of this agreement .
“I firmly believe that such comprehensive and multi-dimensional cooperation holds immense significance—not only for the continued development of Cambodia-China relations, but also for the stability, connectivity, and prosperity of the broader ASEAN region. In particular, the strengthening of legal and institutional frameworks will serve as a cornerstone for regional integration, promote the rule of law, and support our shared vision of a peaceful and inclusive regional community.I will apply the professional knowledge I acquired at Southwest University of Political Science and Law in China to continuously contribute to legal cooperation and exchanges between China and Cambodia.”
President Xi’s visit further solidified the longstanding ironclad friendship between Cambodia and China. I would like to express my continued dedication to supporting the shared goals of both nations through my academic pursuits and future professional contributions.
By H.E. YOS Sokhemrak, Chief of Protocol of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, the President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia
