PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – China says its financial assistance to Cambodia is in no way dependent on its diplomatic support, including in Beijing's dispute with other Southeast Asian countries in the South China Sea.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang was commenting on a recent Associated Press report about a $600 million aid package provided by Beijing to Cambodia that referenced the close relationship between the countries.
State media quoted Lu on Thursday saying China's aid should not be hyped-up or viewed through "tinted glasses."
Cambodia's prime minister announced last week that the Chinese assistance to his government would go to support the country's election infrastructure, education and health.
Last month, Cambodia deported 39 suspected criminals to China, including 25 Taiwanese, over whom Beijing insists it has jurisdiction despite protests from self-ruled Taipei.
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