Phnom Penh (FN), Nov. 19 – As Donald Trump embarks on his second term in office, Southeast Asian nations like Cambodia face both challenges and opportunities in navigating a world increasingly defined by US-China tensions, rising global conflicts, and transnational issues, including the surge in online scams. For Cambodia, the stakes are high, as decisions made in Washington and Beijing will have direct repercussions on its economic and security landscape. Yet, the situation is not without potential for common ground, particularly in areas where Cambodia and the US could share an interest, such as diplomatic pacifism and the protection of sovereignty amid regional unrest.
The US-China rivalry has intensified over the past decade, shaping economic, military, and diplomatic policies around the world. Under Trump’s renewed leadership, US foreign policy will likely reinforce its critical stance on China, affecting regional dynamics in Southeast Asia. For Cambodia, a country with significant economic ties to China, this reality necessitates careful consideration.
Cambodia has welcomed substantial Chinese investments over the years, benefiting from infrastructure projects, trade, and tourism. However, such close alignment has its drawbacks, particularly as China’s influence in Cambodia has sometimes raised concerns among neighboring ASEAN countries and the West. These issues are now under even greater scrutiny as the US monitors Chinese activities in Southeast Asia with renewed vigor.
While Cambodia is unlikely to sever ties with China, which remains its largest trading partner and investor, it may need to adopt a more balanced approach, considering the potential risks of over-dependence. By diversifying its alliances and remaining neutral, Cambodia can minimize the risks associated with aligning too closely with one superpower in a time of intensified competition.
Additionally, Cambodia might consider an approach that other ASEAN nations have taken—strengthening economic ties with Japan, South Korea, and Australia, which have demonstrated a commitment to stability and economic partnership in the region. By fostering these additional ties, Cambodia could maintain economic resilience and retain diplomatic flexibility in a polarized environment.
Despite Trump’s reputation for unpredictability, his administration has shown interest in engaging Southeast Asian countries on key issues such as trade, security, and the digital economy. Cambodia should capitalize on this interest to strengthen its diplomatic relationship with the United States. As the US continues to counterbalance China’s regional influence, Cambodia’s openness to dialogue and cooperation with America could be seen as a positive signal of diplomatic flexibility and shared values.
One area for potential cooperation lies in the realm of economic pacifism, a stance that emphasizes trade and non-aggression over military posturing. Cambodia, as a small and peace-minded nation, has a historical preference for neutrality and diplomacy. By emphasizing these values in discussions with the US, Cambodia can present itself as a responsible regional player committed to fostering peace and stability. This approach could align with Trump’s “America First” philosophy if framed in terms of promoting fair and mutually beneficial trade, economic independence, and a shared aversion to entangling military commitments.
Cambodia could also underscore its commitment to regional security cooperation, including the prevention of illicit activities that could harm American interests in Southeast Asia, such as human trafficking and arms smuggling. This may appeal to Trump’s administration by presenting Cambodia as a proactive partner in enhancing regional security.
Besides, in recent years, Cambodia has faced a surge in online scams, many of which have targeted foreign nationals or involved transnational crime networks. These scams, often orchestrated by organized groups with links to other countries, have damaged Cambodia’s international reputation and strained its relationships with affected nations, including the US Addressing this issue is essential not only for Cambodia’s domestic security but also as a step toward restoring trust in its governance.
The US and Cambodia have a shared interest in countering cybercrime and scams, which threaten individuals and undermine social stability. Collaboration in this area could involve both joint law enforcement initiatives and cybersecurity training programs. By tackling this issue head-on, Cambodia could demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding its digital landscape from abuse. In doing so, Cambodia would strengthen its partnership with the US while addressing an issue of domestic and international concern.
To effectively tackle this issue, Cambodia could establish a task force focused on identifying and dismantling scam networks operating within its borders. This task force, potentially supported by US cybercrime experts, would help Cambodia develop a stronger, more credible approach to law enforcement in the digital space. Additionally, by tightening regulations on online businesses, implementing strict penalties for cyber-related offenses, and investing in digital literacy programs for its citizens, Cambodia can build a more secure online environment. These steps would showcase its commitment to addressing the root causes of scams and protect its own citizens from exploitation.
As Cambodia strengthens its internal capabilities, it could also collaborate with the US and other ASEAN members to establish a regional network focused on information sharing, capacity building, and joint investigations related to cybercrime. Such a network would not only improve Cambodia’s ability to track and prosecute cybercriminals but also strengthen regional cooperation, positioning Cambodia as a reliable ally in the fight against online crime.
Moreover, to effectively navigate US-China tensions, Cambodia will need to reinforce its own governance frameworks. This includes investing in anti-corruption measures, promoting transparency, and ensuring fair competition. Cambodia’s economic reliance on foreign investment, particularly from China, has occasionally led to concerns about the ethical standards of some projects, particularly those involving land acquisitions or environmental impacts.
Improving transparency and enforcing regulations will help Cambodia build a more resilient economy, one that can weather shifts in foreign policy and maintain a stable relationship with multiple international partners. It would also address some of the domestic criticisms of foreign investment, thereby fostering greater internal unity and public support.
Furthermore, Cambodia could further bolster its reputation by prioritizing sustainable development. Given growing global concerns about climate change and environmental protection, implementing policies that ensure foreign investments comply with environmental standards could enhance Cambodia’s appeal as a stable, responsible investment destination. Aligning with the US on environmental concerns, especially given rising global awareness, may open up opportunities for eco-friendly investments and development aid.
Additionally, both Cambodia and Trump’s US share a preference for non-interventionist policies, albeit for different reasons. For Cambodia, non-interventionism aligns with its historical experiences and the necessity of maintaining independence. For Trump, non-interventionism fits into an “America First” doctrine, which emphasizes focusing on domestic issues over costly foreign interventions.
This shared approach offers an avenue for Cambodia and the US to find common ground, particularly in diplomatic engagements. Cambodia could advocate for a united stance against external aggression or interference in regional affairs. By appealing to Trump’s preference for non-intervention and sovereignty, Cambodia can position itself as a stable, cooperative partner that supports the autonomy and pacifist values both countries seek to preserve.
Pacifism as a diplomatic strategy would also allow Cambodia to leverage its influence within ASEAN as a champion of peace and stability, promoting negotiation over conflict in regional disputes. By emphasizing peaceful solutions in regional forums, Cambodia can reinforce its commitment to non-alignment and neutrality, which might appeal to the US as it seeks to avoid deeper involvement in Southeast Asia’s complexities. This stance could also help Cambodia mitigate any backlash from neighboring countries concerned about its close relationship with China, as it maintains a visible commitment to peace and regional cohesion.
Cambodia’s role in ASEAN provides a valuable platform for diplomatic engagement and economic development. As tensions escalate between the US and China, ASEAN’s position as a neutral organization will become increasingly important. Cambodia can use its membership to strengthen ASEAN’s role as a mediator in the region, encouraging peaceful resolution of conflicts and emphasizing the importance of multilateralism.
Moreover, closer ties within ASEAN could help Cambodia diversify its economic partnerships and reduce reliance on any single country. By participating in ASEAN initiatives on trade, infrastructure, and the digital economy, Cambodia can attract investments from a variety of sources, including the US, Japan, and South Korea, while safeguarding its sovereignty and fostering regional stability.
As an active participant in ASEAN, Cambodia could push for policies that support digital security, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience. ASEAN has several frameworks for collaboration in these areas, such as the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 and the ASEAN Green Initiative. By taking a leadership role in these initiatives, Cambodia can strengthen its regional profile while contributing to ASEAN’s overarching goals of prosperity and stability.
Cambodia’s foreign policy in the coming years must be adaptive, reflecting the unpredictability of both Trump’s second term and China’s evolving global ambitions. Cambodian leaders would be wise to craft policies that allow the country to remain flexible, responding swiftly to changes in regional dynamics without compromising its values or long-term interests.
For instance, Cambodia could explore closer cooperation with other ASEAN nations on issues such as cybersecurity, environmental protection, and disaster response, areas where multilateral support can strengthen regional resilience. These policies would not only fortify Cambodia’s domestic capabilities but also showcase its commitment to being a proactive, positive player in Southeast Asia.
In light of potential shifts in the US-China dynamic, Cambodia should also prepare contingency plans for different scenarios, such as increased economic sanctions against Chinese firms or escalated US security presence in the region. By preparing flexible strategies and engaging in diplomatic dialogues with all major players, Cambodia can more effectively protect its sovereignty and pursue its national interests without alienating any particular partner.
As Cambodia enters a new era of US-China competition under Trump’s leadership, it faces a range of complex challenges but also significant opportunities. By pursuing a balanced approach, engaging in constructive dialogue, and addressing transnational issues like scams and cybercrime, Cambodia can navigate these pressures without compromising its sovereignty. Embracing pacifism, bolstering regional alliances, and investing in transparency and governance reforms will further strengthen Cambodia’s resilience and diplomatic standing. In the face of global uncertainties, Cambodia’s emphasis on diplomacy, peace, and multilateral cooperation could set an example for other small nations striving to maintain stability amid superpower rivalries. While the coming years may test Cambodia’s flexibility and diplomatic acumen, these strategies will enable the nation to build a secure, prosperous, and independent future in a shifting global order.
Vichana Sar, a researcher based at the Royal Academy of Cambodia. He holds MPM from KDI School of Public Policy and Management [Public Administration & Leadership and Global Governance & Political Economy] and MEd from Royal University of Phnom Penh [Managing and Planning].
=FRESH NEWS
