A new article in Voice of America says Cambodian students still prefer learning English over Chinese, despite the increased influence (economic and strategic) Beijing has over Phnom Penh:

Cambodia’s government, for its part, has been outwardly supportive of China, especially on the controversial issue of disputed maritime claims in the South China Sea.

Phnom Penh has consistently backed Beijing’s desire for bilateral-only negotiations despite calls from Southeast Asian neighbors, especially Vietnam and the Philippines, for a multi-lateral solution to the problem.

But these growing economic and political bonds do not necessarily lead to stronger cultural ties.

Chheang Vannarith, a professor at Leeds University in Britain, said despite China’s stronger engagement with Cambodia, its cultural influence is not growing because Beijing is putting much more emphasis on military and infrastructure assistance.

He says China should do more to support social services and civil society.

“This is a lack of support in China to Cambodia, “said Vannarith. “China has no policies to support the civil society, but [does have policies for] assistances from government to government and business to business. China should reconsider that issue in order to improve its image.”