Second “railway friend“ rejects US, gives $ contract to China.

Cambodia, known as “China’s No. 2 Pakistan Railway Friend,“ has chosen to cooperate extensively with China in infrastructure development, rejecting interference from the United States. This cooperation includes a $26.6 billion airport project and a lease of 90 kilometers of coastline to China for nearly a century. China and Cambodia have a long history of diplomatic exchanges and mutual support, particularly during times of hardship for Cambodia. The relationship has evolved into an all-round strategic partnership, with China aiding Cambodia in various fields. The Qixinghai International Airport project, contracted by a Chinese company, is a significant undertaking and will greatly impact Cambodia’s transportation and tourism industry. Additionally, China and Cambodia have agreed to support railway projects, including planning, design, and feasibility studies. The China Cambodia Railway, although not the most critical part of the Pan Asian Railway Network, holds economic significance and is the most feasible railway channel for construction. Cambodia is also focusing on the Phnom Penh Poipet railway project to meet transportation demands and promote industrial development and cooperation with China.