Cambodian language teacher Keath Piseth is immersing himself in Chinese martial arts and sharing his native language with Chinese students in south China's Guangzhou, helping forge closer ties between China and Cambodia.

Having lived in China for nearly eight years, Keath now is getting an authentic lesson in a southern style of martial arts in Guangzhou, the city where legendary master Wong Fei Hong spent most of his career.
"It seems my previous training was all choreography. Here, it feels more practical. I haven't practiced in seven or eight years. Now my body aches and I can't hold a horse stance," said Keath during a martial arts performance.
Master He Zhongjian explains how Chinese southern martial arts share many similarities with Southeast Asian styles, especially in animal styles. 
"The Southern Fist focuses on a strong horse stance, because southerners tend to have a smaller build. Animal forms like Tiger Fist come from our ancestors' techniques for fighting animals. Chinese martial arts also teach perseverance and unity," said He Zhongjian, deputy director of Guangzhou Liwan Martial Arts Association. 
"Cambodia's ancient martial art is called 'pounding of the lion', which also uses lower stances. Nowadays, many Cambodians practice Chinese martial arts because it's part of the Southeast Asian Games. Winning medals brings pride to our country," said Keath.
Keath's passion for China began with volunteer work at the Confucius Institute in Phnom Penh, where he met his wife. Following his heart, Keath studied the Chinese language, and now he's giving back by teaching Khmer to Chinese students.
"There's a lot of trade here with a global reach. Cambodian businessmen come to Guangzhou to find goods to sell back home. With China's Belt and Road Initiative, more students are learning Khmer, and the number keeps growing," he said.
Outside of trade, cultural exchanges drive the connection between China and Cambodia. Whether through martial arts or teaching a language, Keath is helping build a future where China and Cambodia continue to grow and win together.