Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing, you know, the one calling the shots there now, was just in Phnom Penh a few days ago. He stayed for two days, from September 11th to 12th.
There was quite a bit of chatter and criticism going around, with many folks having strong opinions. You could even hear hushed discussions at the street-side coffee stalls – it was definitely a hot topic.
So, Cambodia's side quickly came out to address it. The Senate spokesperson made it clear: all that outside criticism? It's got nothing to do with us. Cambodia, you see, always sticks to ASEAN's principle of "non-interference in internal affairs." That's our red line, our fundamental rule.
They also explained that Min Aung Hlaing's visit was mainly about boosting cooperation between the two countries on legislative and administrative matters. Prime Minister Hun Sen and Min Aung Hlaing reportedly had some good, productive discussions, and word is, they even agreed on several deals to be signed.
Cambodia also referenced its own history, emphasizing that maintaining ties and strengthening friendships is what truly matters. What outsiders think or say doesn't sway our own decisions. After all, we have our own foreign policy path, all within the ASEAN framework.
As the evening haze settles and the motorbikes whizz by, this story will likely continue to circulate for a bit, but life, as always, goes on.
