China is willing to better synergize its development plan with Cambodia and jointly build the Belt and Road Initiative to further consolidate cooperation on key projects of industrial capacity and investment, Premier Li Keqiang said.

Premier Li spoke as he met with his Cambodian counterpart Hun Sen in Phnom Penh on Jan 11.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of 19 documents on political cooperation, trade, medical and health services, agriculture and education.

China stands ready to provide help within its capacity to Cambodia, especially in developing its economy and improving people’s lives, to work hand in hand with the country for a community of a shared future, Premier Li said.

He said China is ready to further work with Cambodia in building special economic zones, transportation infrastructure, agricultural products and processing, as well as tourism.

A joint statement was released in which both countries agreed to enhance high-level exchanges and strategic communication and make full use of the China-Cambodia Intergovernmental Coordination Committee to chart bilateral cooperation.

Friendly cooperation has brought tangible benefits to the two peoples and the whole region, Premier Li said, adding that China is willing to work closely with Cambodia under the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism and China-ASEAN framework to contribute to regional prosperity.

Hun Sen said China has been a good friend and cooperative partner, and he believes Premier Li’s visit, taking place in the 60th year of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the nations, will further consolidate Sino-Cambodian ties.

Furthering ties with China is the consensus of the people of Cambodia, Hun Sen told Premier Li. He said Cambodia is satisfied with the current progress of key projects between the two countries in building roads, bridges, industrial parks and harbors. Premier Li also met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni on Jan 11.

Premier Li arrived in Beijing late on Jan 11 after a two-day visit to Cambodia, during which he attended the second LMC Leaders’ Meeting and made an official visit to the country.

China’s ambassador to Cambodia, Xiong Bo, said as of October, China was the top source of foreign investment for Cambodia, with agreed investment of $12.57 billion.