Shanghai: Cambodia is ready to work with China and all international partners to advance the future of artificial intelligence (AI), ensuring that its benefits are shared equitably, responsibly, and sustainably, Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet said.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai, China, on July 17, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet emphasized Cambodia's commitment as one of the first signatories to the Agreement on the Establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation. He articulated Cambodia's readiness to collaborate with China and other partners in fostering an AI future characterized by innovation, inclusivity, security, and respect for national sovereignty.
At the event, the Prime Minister lauded China's contributions to international dialogue and cooperation on AI governance through initiatives such as the Global AI Governance Initiative and the Global AI Governance Action Plan. He stated that these initiatives play a significant role in enhancing multilateral cooperation and building AI capacity, particularly for developing countries and the Global South.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underscored Cambodia's belief in an open, inclusive, and cooperative multilateral framework as crucial for enabling all countries, irrespective of development levels, to participate in and benefit from the AI revolution. He emphasized that effective AI governance should promote international cooperation while respecting the diversity of national circumstances and localized development pathways.
For Cambodia, he noted, the national strategy is anchored in inclusive neutrality and actionable growth for digital sovereignty. This approach aligns with Cambodia's national circumstances, urgent development priorities, and the core belief that the future of AI for the Global South should remain open, inclusive, and beneficial to all.
The Prime Minister outlined Cambodia's three key priorities for AI governance. Firstly, Cambodia supports inclusive neutrality, viewing AI as a bridge for global cooperation rather than a source of geopolitical division. The country advocates for an open and multi-aligned architecture that facilitates seamless cooperation across regions, systems, and governance traditions.
Secondly, Cambodia emphasizes actionable growth, advocating for AI governance that delivers tangible, local outcomes. This includes expanding access to advanced AI models and computing power, strengthening digital infrastructure, cultivating specialized human capital, supporting local innovation ecosystems, and creating new economic opportunities.
Thirdly, Cambodia is preparing to adopt its National AI Strategy to enhance productivity in foundational sectors, improve quality of life, and promote sustainable and inclusive growth. Concurrently, the country is finalizing laws on cybersecurity and personal data protection, which will support its digital transformation while fostering investment, fair competition, and trust in the digital economy.