The year 2025 marked the “Cambodia-China Year of Tourism,” setting the stage for deepening cooperation between the two nations. At the heart of this collaboration is the new Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport, which officially began operations on October 16, 2023. Invested, built, and operated by Chinese enterprises, the airport stands as a landmark project under the Belt and Road Initiative and a fresh symbol of Cambodia-China friendship.
Designed according to international civil aviation standards and refined with Chinese technical specifications, the airport showcases the integration of Chinese standards into global infrastructure. Its deliberate location away from the Angkor archaeological site minimizes the impact of aircraft on these ancient monuments. This thoughtful move not only addresses the cultural preservation challenges posed by the old airport’s proximity to Angkor Wat but also reflects China’s commitment to protecting Cambodia’s heritage—a concrete example of sustainable development.
By the end of 2024, the airport had recorded 18,430 takeoffs and landings, served over 1.7 million passengers, and handled over 100 tons of cargo and mail. With 17 routes across eight countries, it is steadily emerging as a strategic hub connecting South and Southeast Asia, addressing Cambodia’s urgent need for upgraded aviation infrastructure.
In August 2024, the China-Cambodia Cultural Corridor was inaugurated at the airport. A captivating photo exhibition drew the attention of many travelers, showcasing world heritage sites from China’s Yunnan province—including the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, Jingmai Mountain, the Three Parallel Rivers, and the Old Town of Lijiang—alongside Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and the archaeological site of Koh Ker. This vibrant display highlighted the rich cultural legacies of both countries and fostered a dynamic dialogue between them.
Through this “aerial Silk Road,” elements of Yunnan and Khmer culture have blended and enriched one another, reflecting the deepening of China-Cambodia cooperation. The new Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport not only serves as a gateway for travelers but also as a bridge connecting the hearts and minds of people in both nations.
