But the transition of power has significant implications for Cambodia’s future, Southeast Asia and for the United States and China, which are jockeying for influence in the region.
When Mr. Hun Sen became prime minister 38 years ago, the country was emerging from the destruction of the Khmer Rouge movement.
He ushered in an era of strongman rule that has included the eradication of opposition parties and independent media.
claimed it had clinched a “landslide victory” in elections that international observers said were stage-managed and unfair.
As leader, Mr. Hun Sen embraced China, which he described as Cambodia’s “most trustworthy friend.” Beijing, Cambodia’s largest trading partner, supplied loans to finance airports, roads and other infrastructure projects.
Persons:
Hun Manet, Hun Sen, Mr, ”
Organizations:
West
Locations:
Southeast Asia, United States, China, England, Khmer, ” Beijing