Viet Nam–Cambodia Ties Reach Strategic Turning Point After To Lam Visit
Relations between Viet Nam and Cambodia have entered a “strategic turning point” following the recent visit of Vietnamese Party chief To Lam to Phnom Penh, according to a commentary published by the Phnom Penh Post.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Neak Chandarith, Director of the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, described the February 6 visit as more than routine diplomacy. He said it marks a new phase in what he called an “everlasting era of neighbourliness” and enduring friendship between the two countries.
Strengthening Political Trust
The Cambodian scholar stressed that in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment, both nations must reinforce their “special solidarity” and traditional ties.
He noted that the stability and development of Viet Nam and Cambodia are closely linked. Progress in one country directly affects the other. For that reason, he argued, deeper cooperation is essential for long-term sustainability and shared prosperity.
Political trust remains central to this effort. According to the commentary, strong coordination between the Politburo of the Communist Party of Viet Nam and the Standing Committee of the Cambodian People’s Party plays a decisive role in helping both sides respond to emerging challenges.
Regional and ASEAN Dimension
The article also highlighted the importance of strengthening strategic connectivity among Cambodia, Viet Nam and Laos. Such cooperation, the scholar said, would reinforce regional solidarity and support the central role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in shaping the regional order.
In this context, closer ties are seen not only as a bilateral priority but also as a contribution to broader regional stability.
Economic Integration Deepens
On the economic front, the commentary pointed to growing integration between the two neighbours. Viet Nam’s goal of achieving average GDP growth of 10 percent or higher during the 2026–2030 period is expected to create positive spillover effects for Cambodia.
Viet Nam’s push for digital transformation and industrialisation could expand markets and improve cross-border connectivity. Infrastructure and logistics projects are already strengthening supply chains and facilitating trade.
Both sides are working toward increasing bilateral trade turnover to 20 billion USD in the coming years. Plans to develop a “smart border” are also underway, aimed at improving efficiency and boosting commerce.
Looking Ahead
The commentary concluded that deeper, more substantive cooperation will allow both countries to shape their own futures amid global uncertainty.
By strengthening trust, connectivity and economic ties, Viet Nam and Cambodia aim to build a stable and prosperous partnership. The scholar argued that this approach will benefit not only their citizens but also contribute to peace and development across the region.
