PHNOM PENH, April 3 (Xinhua) -- A Cambodia's leading think tank will host a forum on Cambodia-China relations on April 9, aiming at fostering a deeper understanding of the historical, political, and economic ties between the two countries, an organizer said on Thursday.

Under the theme "Cambodia-China Ironclad Friendship in the New Era: Win-Win Cooperation and Shared Prosperity," the forum will bring together around 100 participants from government agencies, academic experts, researchers, university professors and students, among others.

"As traditionally close neighbours and partners, Cambodia and China have forged and nurtured an unbreakable 'iron-clad' friendship that has weathered various historic tests and difficulties," Kin Phea, director general of the International Relations Institute of Cambodia, a think tank under the Royal Academy of Cambodia, told Xinhua.

Cambodia and China established official diplomatic relations on July 19, 1958.

Phea said this enduring relationship has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership characterized by mutual respect, non-interference, and win-win cooperation.

"China has emerged as Cambodia's most significant development partner, playing a pivotal role in driving economic growth through substantial investments in infrastructure, trade and other sectors," he said.

"The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has further solidified this partnership, facilitating the modernization of Cambodia's transportation networks, energy sector, and digital infrastructure," he added.

Phea said the forum will serve as a vital platform for in-depth analysis and meaningful exchanges on the evolving relationship between Cambodia and China.

"This forum will highlight the enduring and strategic nature of Cambodia-China ties, which have been strengthened through economic collaboration, infrastructure development, and cultural exchanges," he said.

The significant contribution of Chinese enterprises to Cambodia's socio-economic development will also be elaborated, he added.

Phea said this event will greatly contribute to strengthening people-to-people ties, promoting academic and policy exchanges, and reinforcing the long-term vision of win-win cooperation and shared prosperity between Cambodia and China in the new era. Enditem