Foreign policy motives of Cambodia in the context of implementing China’s initiative "One Belt, One Road"

The subject of this study is Cambodia's foreign policy in the context of its support for the Chinese initiative "One Belt, One Road." The author focuses on identifying the set of factors that determined the Cambodian leadership's decision to actively engage in the implementation of this large-scale infrastructure and economic project of the PRC. The article analyzes the historical prerequisites of Cambodian-Chinese relations, the peculiarities of Cambodia's geopolitical position in Southeast Asia, as well as the influence of the transformation of the regional and global balance of power on the foreign policy priorities of the kingdom. Special attention is given to the role of economic development, infrastructure modernization, and energy security as key national interests of Cambodia. The political context within the country is also considered, including the influence of anti-Vietnamese sentiments, intra-party competition, and socio-demographic factors on the formation of foreign policy decisions. Thus, the subject of the research encompasses both external and internal determinants of Cambodia's support for the "One Belt, One Road" initiative. The study employs a neorealist paradigm of international relations combined with a three-level model of foreign policy analysis and a systemic approach. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the comprehensive examination of Cambodia's support for the "One Belt, One Road" initiative through the lens of the interconnection of systemic, national, and individual factors in foreign policy decision-making. Unlike researches that focus predominantly on economic benefits or the dependence of small states on China, the article demonstrates that Cambodia's position represents a rational strategy for a small state aimed at maximizing benefits in the face of competition from major international actors. The author concludes that Cambodia's participation in the OBOR initiative is determined not only by the need for infrastructure investments but also by the desire to strengthen foreign policy autonomy, reduce dependence on certain regional partners, and ensure internal political stability. At the same time, the study reveals structural limitations and potential risks of this course, including social stratification, limited engagement of the local economy in OBOR projects, and complications in relations with Western countries and Vietnam. The conclusion is drawn about the dual nature of the "Belt and Road" initiative for Cambodia, combining significant development opportunities with long-term political and socio-economic challenges.