Part 13/15:
Meanwhile, Western governments are urging Cambodia to improve governance, fight corruption, and crack down on illicit activities like scams and human trafficking. Efforts to increase transparency—such as making Chinese-funded project agreements public—and cooperation with international law enforcement agencies aim to bolster political openness and security.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Cambodia and Regional Stability
Cambodia’s recent trajectory illustrates a critical moment where it is asserting its sovereignty to craft a more balanced foreign policy. The move away from a heavily China-centric orientation—marked by increased US military cooperation, diversified diplomatic outreach, and internal reforms—marks a notable departure from its previous dependence.