Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Cambodia’s longest-serving Prime Minister, is widely recognized not only for his leadership in domestic development but also for his diplomatic achievements. His foreign policy strategy, rooted in pragmatism, neutrality, and mutual benefit, has enabled Cambodia to maintain friendly relations with diverse global powers while advancing its own national interests.
This article highlights Hun Sen’s diplomatic legacy—how Cambodia established strong international partnerships, balanced global alliances, and became a respected voice in regional and global affairs.
“Foreign policy is not about choosing sides but about ensuring peace and prosperity for the nation.” – Samdech Techo Hun Sen
1. The Foundations of Cambodia’s Foreign Policy under Hun Sen
Hun Sen’s diplomacy was guided by key principles:
- Peace first: Political stability as the basis for foreign relations.
- Mutual respect: Engaging with global partners without interference in internal affairs.
- Neutrality and balance: Avoiding dependency on a single power while maintaining independence.
- Win-win cooperation: Ensuring partnerships benefit both Cambodia and its allies.
This vision positioned Cambodia as a bridge between nations, rather than a battlefield of foreign influence.
2. Strengthening Ties with ASEAN
Hun Sen firmly believed in regional integration. Cambodia joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1999 under his leadership, marking a turning point in its international role.
- ASEAN membership benefits: Access to regional markets, security cooperation, and cultural exchange.
- Key achievements: Hosting the ASEAN Summit multiple times, including 2002, 2012, and 2022.
- Diplomatic influence: Cambodia became an active voice in shaping ASEAN’s direction, particularly in matters of peace and stability.
Case Study:
During Cambodia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2012 and 2022, Hun Sen navigated delicate regional disputes, showing Cambodia’s ability to mediate while protecting its sovereignty.
3. Deepening Cambodia–China Relations
Under Hun Sen, Cambodia developed a comprehensive strategic partnership with China.
- Economic cooperation: Billions in infrastructure investment through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
- Trade relations: Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed in 2020, boosting exports of Cambodian agricultural products.
- Development assistance: Roads, bridges, and modern hospitals built with Chinese support.
Hun Sen emphasized that these ties were not about dependency but pragmatic cooperation:
“China respects Cambodia’s independence and supports our development path without conditions.”
4. Cambodia and the United States: Dialogue and Engagement
Despite occasional differences, Hun Sen maintained engagement with the United States.
- Trade relations: Cambodia benefits from preferential access to the U.S. market under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).
- Security cooperation: Collaboration on counterterrorism and peacekeeping training.
- Diplomatic dialogue: Hun Sen stressed the importance of respectful communication, ensuring Cambodia’s sovereignty remained central.
This balanced approach allowed Cambodia to sustain ties with the world’s largest economy while safeguarding its independence.
5. Cambodia–European Union Relations
The European Union (EU) became another important partner during Hun Sen’s tenure.
- Trade and exports: EU was one of Cambodia’s largest markets for textiles and garments.
- Development assistance: EU programs supported education, rural development, and governance reforms.
- Diplomatic dialogue: Hun Sen consistently advocated for dialogue over sanctions, reinforcing Cambodia’s stance on mutual respect.
Even during trade disputes, Hun Sen emphasized Cambodia’s commitment to constructive engagement with the EU.
6. Cambodia and Japan: A Model of Strategic Partnership
Hun Sen cultivated a special bond with Japan, based on trust and long-term collaboration.
- Economic support: Japan has been one of Cambodia’s largest aid donors, supporting infrastructure, health, and education.
- Political partnership: Japan played a role in Cambodia’s peace process and remains a key partner in governance development.
- Cultural exchange: Strengthening people-to-people ties through education, tourism, and cultural programs.
This partnership symbolized Hun Sen’s win-win diplomacy, where Cambodia and Japan benefitted equally.
7. Cambodia on the Global Stage: Peacekeeping and Multilateralism
Hun Sen positioned Cambodia as a contributor to global peace, not just a recipient of aid.
- UN Peacekeeping Missions: Thousands of Cambodian soldiers and engineers deployed to conflict zones in Africa and the Middle East.
- Global forums: Cambodia actively participated in the United Nations, Non-Aligned Movement, and other international platforms.
- Climate and development diplomacy: Hun Sen consistently called for fairness in global development and climate action, highlighting Cambodia’s efforts despite being a developing nation.
This earned Cambodia respect as a responsible member of the international community.
8. Case Study: Cambodia’s Role as ASEAN Chair in 2022
In 2022, as ASEAN Chair, Cambodia hosted dozens of high-level meetings, welcoming leaders from the U.S., China, Russia, Japan, and Europe.
Hun Sen’s leadership:
- Facilitated dialogue amid global tensions.
- Ensured ASEAN unity during crises.
- Projected Cambodia as a neutral mediator on the international stage.
This showcased his diplomatic skill and the maturity of Cambodia’s foreign policy.
9. Legacy of Hun Sen’s Diplomacy
Hun Sen’s diplomatic achievements can be summarized as:
- Balanced relations with global powers.
- Strong partnerships with key allies in Asia, Europe, and beyond.
- A voice for peace through peacekeeping and neutrality.
- Economic diplomacy that opened trade and investment opportunities.
His legacy demonstrates that Cambodia’s foreign policy under his leadership was not about choosing sides but about securing the nation’s prosperity and sovereignty.
Conclusion
Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s diplomatic strategy has left an enduring legacy for Cambodia. By skillfully balancing relations with major powers while prioritizing peace, stability, and development, Hun Sen ensured that Cambodia gained international respect and strong partnerships.
As Cambodia continues to build on this foundation, the nation stands as an example of how small states can thrive in global diplomacy through pragmatism, neutrality, and win-win cooperation.
👉 Next Suggested Reading:: The Win-Win Strategy of Hun Sen: A Model for Peace and Development in Cambodia