As China’s partners face domestic troubles, Cambodia’s stability makes it an outlier. The relationship is more transactional than others, with no ideological bond – in many ways a good basis for regional cooperation.

Critics say his political longevity has been won through murder, repression and corruption, but supporters point to peace and prosperity in the country.

With it looking increasingly likely that Britain will exit the European Union without a deal by October 31, Japanese companies operating in the country are fearing the worst – though few have actively prepared for it.

The ‘death of democracy’ cements the military’s power in politics – and paves the way for the prime minister’s succession plan.

Cambodia’s election is widely seen as illegitimate due to the absence of the country’s biggest opposition party, but there are still 19 parties standing up to Hun Sen – even if they are small, with even slimmer hopes.