Cambodian King and Mother Travel to China for Routine Health Checkups

PHNOM PENH, March 3, 2025 (BSS/XINHUA) – Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, accompanied by his mother, former Queen Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, departed Phnom Penh on Monday for Beijing, China, to undergo a regular medical checkup and treatment.

At Phnom Penh International Airport, the royal family was seen off by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin, and other prominent officials.

In a message to the Cambodian people, King Sihamoni, 71, explained that his trip to Beijing was for a routine health check. “During my absence, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, president of the Senate, will assume the title of acting head of state of the Kingdom of Cambodia,” he added.

The king undergoes medical checkups with Chinese doctors twice a year, with his most recent visit to China for health reasons taking place in August 2024.

Additional Context:

King Norodom Sihamoni has maintained a tradition of regular medical checkups in China, which has become a notable part of his routine. The long-standing ties between Cambodia and China are often highlighted during such visits, with Cambodia relying on Chinese healthcare services for the royal family’s health needs.