PHNOM PENH — Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen said on Feb 24 that the impact of COVID-19 on China's economy is temporary and will not affect China's long-term social and economic development goals.

"I think the coronavirus will not change China's long-term economic development goals, nor the Belt and Road Initiative," he told a news conference.

Although China is currently facing difficulties, it has not stopped any of its aid to other countries, including Cambodia, he said, adding that "many countries have been standing firmly with China" in the battle against the virus.

The prime minister said he is fully confident in China's ability to prevent and control the spread of the virus.

Hun Sen also praised China for taking all necessary measures to control and contain the outbreak, which have also been highly commended by the international community and the World Health Organization.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to the Communist Party of China, the Chinese government and people for their efforts to solve this difficult issue," he said.