Cambodia Moves 54 Tons of Gold to China Amid Shifting Alliances

Reports indicate Prime Minister Hun Sen has ordered Cambodia's gold reserves, totaling 54 tons, to be moved to China for safekeeping.

The move suggests Hun Sen may be assessing his grip on power and preparing for potential scenarios where he might need to seek refuge.

This action signals a clear political statement from Cambodia, indicating a renewed submission to Chinese influence after a period of perceived alignment with the US.

Between July and late 2023, the government of Hun Manet raised suspicions in China with its apparent pivot towards the United States.

Hun Manet's visit to Hawaii for the Indo-Pacific initiative, aimed at countering Chinese influence, and invitations for US military officials to visit Ream port, were seen as direct challenges to China.

Hun Manet's demeanor and perceived ambition to align with Western powers have eroded China's trust.

The US has shown no inclination to support the Hun family, with US security agencies investigating individuals close to Hun Sen for alleged involvement in transnational financial crimes.

The US government's facilitation of Sam Rainsy's political activities within the US is seen as a clear indication of American preference for him as an alternative leader in Cambodia.

Despite declining popularity, Hun Sen remains the ultimate authority in Cambodia, with a significant power transition not expected until mid-2025.

Local elections are scheduled for mid-2025, followed by general elections in May 2026, marking the beginning of a more substantial power transition.

With the power transition still some time away, China feels compelled to continue supporting Hun Sen while also cultivating other potential leaders.

China is also fostering relationships with other Cambodian political figures, including the Te family (Tieb Ban and Tieb Seyha) and Prince Norodom Chakravuth, leader of the FUNCINPEC party.

Unlike the US, which directly targets leaders, China's strategy involves encouraging leaders to politically self-destruct, as seen with Hun Sen's potential conflict with Thailand.

China's provision of military equipment, such as Type 056 frigates and T-59D tanks, may be intended to provoke Hun Sen into conflict with Thailand, potentially leading to his downfall.

Contrary to the previous analysis, China has consistently maintained strong relations with Thailand, evidenced by high-level state visits and diplomatic exchanges.

China recognizes that a poor relationship with Thailand would significantly jeopardize its interests in the region.

China is highly aware of the delicate nature of Thai-Chinese relations and actively works to prevent misunderstandings, unlike its approach to Cambodia.

The discussion touches upon accusations that Cambodia is being used as a base for global scams, a situation China appears unconcerned about.

The transfer of gold reserves suggests Hun Sen may be preparing for a permanent move to China if he loses power.

China has a history of providing refuge and support to Cambodian leaders, including former King Norodom Sihanouk and the current King Norodom Sihamoni.

The video concludes with a call for viewers to support Top News through memberships to help sustain its reporting.