As Xi Arrives in Phnom Penh, Cambodia Starts U.S. Tariff Talks

Cambodia quietly opened a new diplomatic front, launching its first round of talks with the United States on President Donald Trump’s newly announced tariffs.
China's President Xi Jinping (C) and Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni (C-L) walking past the honor guards upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport on April 17, 2025. (Photo by POOL / AFP)

As Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in Phnom Penh for a two-day state visit on Thursday, Cambodia quietly opened a new diplomatic front, launching its first round of talks with the United States on President Donald Trump’s newly announced tariffs.

Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol and Commerce Minister Cham Nimul led the virtual negotiations on Wednesday. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer represented the U.S.

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by Edwin Shri Bimo

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