New China envoy asked to promote investment

SENATE president Say Chhum has advised the newly appointed Cambodian ambassador to China to focus her efforts on explaining the reality of the situation in the Kingdom to the international community, as well as to her Chinese hosts, in order to attract more Chinese investors and tourists to Cambodia.

Chhum made the suggestion as Soeung Rathavi, former secretary of state of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, paid a February 12 courtesy call on him at the Senate headquarters, ahead of her departure for China.

According to a statement by the Senate’s information department, Chhum instructed Rathavi to try to disseminate Cambodia’s democratic practices on the international stage.

“You need to provide up-todate information on the actual situation in Cambodia and pay close attention to attracting more Chinese investors and tourists. You should also actively promote our excellent culture and traditions,” he was quoted as telling the envoy.

As Cambodia’s representative on the international stage, Rathavi reiterated her commitment to the responsible fulfilment of her diplomatic duties, and assured Chhum that she would strive to follow his advice regarding disseminating the Kingdom’s progress.

She added that she will focus her efforts on attracting more investors and tourists, in order to contribute to the development of the country and enhance national prestige.

Rathavi also shared her intention to strengthen relations with China, as well as the ambassadors of other countries.

Seun Sam, an international relations researcher at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said the appointment of the new ambassador is a positive step, noting that Cambodia and China must continue to maintain and promote strong relations within the “diamond framework”, for the benefit of both countries.

“The appointment of Rathavi … is an excellent indicator of the Kingdom’s commitment to continued strong relations with the Chinese side. While the relationship between the two countries is already good, I expect that she will be able to promote closer cooperation,” he said.

Sam is optimistic about the continued strengthening of Sino-Cambodian ties, with the new ambassador, who he believes will be committed to the practical implementation of past agreements between Cambodia and China, especially keen to strengthen people-to-people exchanges.

Rathavi, 65, was appointed as ambassador to China by a Royal Decree dated December 29, 2023. She replaces Khek Cai Mealy Sysoda, 89, who has served in the position for more than 17 years, since his 2007 appointment.