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China and Cambodia Elevate New 2+2 Talks to 3+3 Security Format

The move signals Beijing’s bid to lock in tighter security links with a key Southeast Asian partner.

Overview

  • China and Cambodia held their first 2+2 strategic dialogue in Phnom Penh, bringing together the countries’ foreign and defense ministers.
  • The two sides agreed to expand the channel into a 3+3 that adds China’s public security ministry and Cambodia’s interior ministry, the Cambodian foreign ministry said.
  • China’s Wang Yi called for closer solidarity and promoted an Asian security model built on shared security and risks.
  • Officials did not release new security details. Questions over the Chinese-funded Ream Naval Base persist, and Cambodia denies U.S. claims of exclusive Chinese access.
  • China is Cambodia’s largest investor and aid donor, with reported two-way trade of about $19.73 billion last year.