Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a captivating country located in the southern part of the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. Covering a total land area of 181,035 square kilometers (69,898 sq mi), Cambodia shares its borders with Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest.
Key Facts:
- Population: With a population of over 14.8 million, Cambodia stands as the 69th most populous country globally.
- Religion: The official religion is Theravada Buddhism, practiced by approximately 95% of the Cambodian population.
- Diversity: The country is home to a rich tapestry of diversity, including minority groups such as Vietnamese, Chinese, Chams, and 30 distinct hill tribes.
- Capital: The vibrant capital and largest city, Phnom Penh, serves as the political, economic, and cultural nucleus of Cambodia.
Political Structure:
- Cambodia follows a constitutional monarchy, with Norodom Sihamoni, a monarch chosen by the Royal Throne Council, holding the position of head of state.
- The head of government is Hun Sen, who is the longest-serving leader in Southeast Asia, overseeing Cambodia for over 25 years.
Historical Significance:
- Cambodia’s history dates back to 802 AD when Jayavarman II declared himself king, marking the beginning of the Khmer Empire.
- Over 600 years, successive kings wielded immense power, dominating Southeast Asia.
- Cambodia experienced a period of vassalage to neighboring nations until French colonization in the mid-19th century.
- Gaining independence in 1953, Cambodia faced challenges during the Vietnam War, leading to the rise of the Khmer Rouge in 1975.
- After years of strife, Cambodia re-established itself as the People’s Republic of Kampuchea until reuniting under the monarchy in 1993.
Post-war Progress:
- Cambodia has witnessed significant progress in the economic and human resource sectors after decades of civil war.
- The country has achieved one of the best economic records in Asia, with an average growth rate of 6.0% over the last decade.
- Robust industries, including textiles, agriculture, construction, garments, and tourism, have attracted foreign investments and facilitated international trade.
- The discovery of oil and natural gas deposits in 2005 is poised to impact Cambodia’s economy significantly.
Current Status:
- Cambodia continues to thrive as a dynamic nation, embracing its rich cultural heritage while forging ahead in economic development and global engagement.
