On the meaningful occasion of the eighth anniversary of the inauguration of the Cambodia–China Progress Researchers Association’s signboard, the association, under the committed leadership of its president, Dr Chea Monyrith, has become a civil-society institution with an important role. It works alongside other civil-society organisations in Cambodia to promote and strengthen traditional people-to-people friendship between Cambodia and China, while contributing with local administrations to social development at the local level.
Since its establishment, the association has clearly defined its mission as a bridge of friendship linking research institutions, media networks, enterprises, organisations, civil society, foundations and local communities in our two countries, Cambodia and China. It seeks to deepen mutual understanding and promote the sharing of development experience. Its many activities include scientific forums, seminars, policy discussions, and the publication of books and research reports. These have helped strengthen understanding of China’s development ideas, experience in building its economy and social governance, so that they can be applied appropriately in Cambodia.
The association has placed strong emphasis on promoting people-to-people relations through close cooperation with Chinese civil-society organisations and foundations, including international liaison centres, charitable organisations, cultural associations and educational institutions. This bridge of friendship has enabled exchanges among researchers, students, young people, doctors and professional specialists, contributing to greater mutual understanding, respect for each other’s cultures and lasting friendships.
In addition, the association has played an active role in humanitarian work and in improving the livelihoods of Cambodians in rural areas. Through cooperation with Chinese civil-society partners, it has helped organise and coordinate many activities: providing learning materials, books, computers, electronic boards, schoolbags and medical supplies; arranging free health examinations; and supplying bicycles and everyday necessities to students and families with concrete needs. It has also contributed to repairs of schools, concrete roads, kindergarten buildings and other community infrastructure. These activities offer not only material assistance but also hope, encouragement and opportunities for long-term development for rural residents. The achievements demonstrate practical friendship between the Cambodian and Chinese peoples, based on the principles of a shared future and inclusive development.
Over eight years, from 15 January 2018 to 2026, the Cambodia–China Progress Researchers Association has become an important platform for connecting networks, building trust and promoting cooperation between the two countries’ civil societies. Under Dr Chea Monyrith’s leadership, the association has continued to strengthen its contribution to building a Cambodia–China community with a shared future, based on mutual understanding, mutual support and sustainable development.
Overall, this eighth anniversary is both a celebration of past achievements and a new starting point for further strengthening the bridge of people-to-people friendship, expanding cooperation with Chinese civil society and continuing the mission of improving rural Cambodians’ livelihoods, towards a future of peace, progress and prosperity.
Source: Club of Cambodian Journalists
Adapted by: Chinda Titi
