Clinton to promote human rights, credible opposition during visit

Phnom Penh - US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is expected to stress the importance of human rights and the existence of a credible political opposition during her brief visit to the Cambodian capital Monday.

The government in Phnom Penh has come in for criticism over the past 18 months after a series of court cases against its perceived critics in politics, media and civil society.

A State Department spokesman said in a statement released over the weekend that Clinton's visit highlighted the US's 'commitment to enhanced, sustained, and comprehensive engagement in South-East Asia.'

'The United States has a strong interest in a Cambodia that contributes to regional stability, upholds democratic values, and integrates fully into the international economy,' the spokesman said.