China and Cambodia Hold First 2+2 Dialogue to Strengthen Security Ties

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for China and Cambodia to stand in closer solidarity during the first 2+2 strategic dialogue held in Phnom Penh. The meeting, which took place on Wednesday, aimed to deepen mutual political and security ties. Wang stated that the two sides should strengthen cooperation to hold the reins of development and security in their own hands.

The 2+2 mechanism involves defense and foreign ministers and was proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping during a state visit to Cambodia in April of the previous year. Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun joined Wang at the meeting with Cambodian officials.

According to a statement from the Cambodian foreign ministry issued on Thursday, the two sides agreed to upgrade the mechanism to a 3+3 format, incorporating the Chinese public security ministry and the Cambodian interior ministry. The upgrade is intended to deepen bilateral cooperation and address evolving regional and global challenges.

Wang noted that the international community is undergoing profound upheaval and transformation since the end of the Cold War. He expressed willingness to deepen cooperation with Cambodia to build an Asian security model based on shared security and risks, seeking common ground while reserving differences, and promoting dialogue and consultation.