China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently called for the complete eradication of scam centers in Cambodia during a meeting with Prime Minister Hun Manet in Phnom Penh.

According to Beijing's foreign ministry, Wang emphasized that cross-border gambling and fraud pose serious threats to people's lives and property and must be resolutely cracked down on and completely eliminated.

Cambodia is home to numerous scam centers, employing tens of thousands of individuals involved in multibillion-dollar illicit activities, including online scams.

Some of these individuals willingly participate, while others are victims of human trafficking.

Despite the scale of the problem, Cambodian authorities have been under pressure from countries like China to address the issue.

Wang Yi's call for eradication reflects the strained relationship between Cambodia and its neighboring countries, as well as the broader regional situation.

The Chinese foreign minister also expressed support for initiatives aimed at normalizing relations between Cambodia and Thailand following deadly clashes along their border last year.

While a ceasefire was agreed upon in December, tensions remain high, with both countries accusing each other of failing to respect the truce.

China and Cambodia maintain close diplomatic, military, and economic ties.

During the meeting, Wang Yi, accompanied by Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, stressed the 'unbreakable bond' between the two nations.

Hun Manet, Cambodian Prime Minister, has previously voiced his intention to combat the scam centers, describing them as detrimental to his country's economy and reputation.

Hun Manet and Wang Yi discussed potential areas of cooperation including politics, trade, investment, national defense, security, clean energy, transportation infrastructure construction, and agriculture.

Additionally, meetings were held with Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Defense Minister Tea Seiha.