The Cambodian government’s removal of political opposition is part of a growing trend toward authoritarianism in Southeast Asia that continues even in the face of international criticism, due largely to diplomatic and economic aid from Beijing, according to Nikkei Asian Review. Earlier this month, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Cambodian counterpart that China supported Cambodia’s efforts to protect political stability and believes it will smoothly hold elections next year. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, facing Western donor pressure over a crackdown on critics before 2018 elections, will seek more aid and investment from China during a visit this week, his aide said on Wednesday.