Stadium diplomacy is doing well, apparently. Now it’s Phnom Penh that expects an amazing national stadium. Designed, built and paid for by China, it’s expected to symbolize friendship between the countries.

Cambodia’s new national stadium was presented last week. So far there's only one rendering of what's getting built in the northern outskirt of Prek Pnov, Phnom Penh. This is where the metropolis has been growing towards in recent years. This is also where the national sports complex with indoor natatorium, training stadium, tennis courts and other amenities is going to stand.

At the heart, of course, the main stadium for up to 60,000 people. Its design will resemble a traditional Chinese boat, which has a double meaning. First, it would stand between the rivers Tonle Sap and Mekong. And secondly, it comes as part of Chinese ‘stadium diplomacy’, so the resemblance is to symbolize friendship of the two countries. The concept was selected out of 5 bids by prime minister Hun Sen himself.

The light roof structure will be supported by two tall masts at each end. These show significant similarity to the Yellow Dragon Stadium in Hangzhou, but are much lighter and dynamic. With or without them, the new Cambodian stadium will be much larger than the current one downtown Phnom Penh.

The project will cost $100 million (or such is the grant by Chinese authorities) and will be entirely financed by China. As is the case in most such deals, design and construction will also be carried out by Chinese companies.

The entire complex should be delivered in 4-5 years, which suggests delivery before or in 2020. Thanks to this infrastructure Cambodia will be able to host the 2023 SEA Games for the first time in history.