Hun Manet is expected to guide a generational shift in Cambodian politics, taking over for his father Hun Sen, one of the world’s longest-ruling prime ministers.
The president traveled to Cambodia hoping that an in-person appearance would help reinforce his administration’s broad efforts to counter China’s rise and to promote human rights.
The Biden administration says its commitment to the region has only deepened, but critics say the tensions over Taiwan show that Washington needs stronger military and economic strategies.
The leaders at the two-day summit in Washington will discuss a variety of topics, but the president plans to use it to show a united front against Beijing.