Cambodia’s King Joins China’s Victory Day Parade in Beijing

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni stood alongside global leaders in Tiananmen Square yesterday to mark the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the global fight against fascism. His presence at the military parade was a symbolic affirmation of Cambodia’s enduring ties with Beijing and its strategic role in regional diplomacy.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan personally welcomed King Sihamoni and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, extending full honours to the Cambodian royal family. Their attendance underscored the depth of cultural and political relations between the two nations, which Xi described as “ironclad” and resilient through decades of geopolitical shifts.

The parade, which featured over 10,000 troops and advanced military hardware, was attended by more than 20 foreign dignitaries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. It served both as a tribute to wartime sacrifice and a showcase of China’s growing military capabilities.

In a bilateral meeting held prior to the event, Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to Cambodia’s development and stability, praising the Kingdom’s strategic autonomy and its role in Belt and Road cooperation. He recalled his state visit to Phnom Penh in April, where he was warmly received by the King and Cambodian citizens.

“China-Cambodia relations have withstood the tests of international vicissitudes,” Xi said, calling the partnership “a precious asset” that must be preserved and strengthened. He also reiterated the goal of building an “all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future.”

The King’s participation in the Victory Day celebrations was widely viewed as a gesture of solidarity, reinforcing Cambodia’s position as a trusted regional partner amid shifting global dynamics. As China continues to assert its influence across Asia, Cambodia’s alignment with Beijing remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

The event highlighted not only historical remembrance but also the evolving landscape of international alliances, with Cambodia firmly positioned as a key player in China’s regional vision.

-2025-09-05