AKP Phnom Penh, April 10, 2025 --

H.E. Neth Pheaktra, Minister of Information of Cambodia, has highlighted the vital role of the media in deepening Cambodia-China relations at the Joint-Interview Exchange Forum, organised by China’s People’s Daily in Phnom Penh this morning.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Minister stressed that the media plays a key role in raising public awareness by providing accurate and truthful information. He noted that the media serves as a bridge to connect people, foster solidarity, and promote friendship across cultural, economic, and political areas between the two nations.

The forum offered a valuable platform for networking, exchanging experiences, and sharing visions between Cambodian and Chinese journalists. It was described as an important step toward enhancing cooperation in the fields of information and broadcasting, and contributing to new milestones in bilateral relations—particularly in journalism and mass communication.

H.E. Neth Pheaktra noted that through workshops, study tours, and collaborative reporting efforts, journalists from both countries are gaining deeper insights into shared challenges and achievements. This collaboration supports the development of more accurate, ethical, and high-quality journalism.

A Cambodian-Chinese joint media tour, held from April 4 to 7 as part of the Joint-Interview Exchange Programme, focused on development projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The tour reflected the shared commitment to enhancing mutual understanding, communication, and long-term cooperation between the two nations’ media sectors.

The four-day visit aimed to provide the public and the world with a clearer picture of major collaborative projects between the two “ironclad-friendship” countries. These included the Cambodia-China Friendship Preah Kossamak Hospital, the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, the Lower Sesan II Hydropower Station, the Rural Infrastructure Development Project, the Chak Angre Bridge Project, and the Cambodia-China Joint Logistics and Training Centre.

“These projects are clear evidence of cooperation based on mutual benefit, shared prosperity, and a common future,” H.E. Neth Pheaktra stated. “I firmly hope that cooperation between our two countries—especially between institutions and organisations—will continue to flourish and yield greater results for the benefit of both nations and their people.”

Addressing the rapid digital transformation and the growing threat of misinformation, the minister also stressed the importance of journalistic integrity and professionalism. He encouraged media professionals from both countries to remain committed to truth, accuracy, and ethical standards in their reporting to ensure the delivery of credible and constructive content.

H.E. Neth Pheaktra also extended his sincere appreciation to the Chinese government and media institutions for their continued support in Cambodia’s development, particularly in the areas of media capacity building, technical assistance, and essential training programmes.

By Chea Vannak