Cambodia’s expanded naval port, funded by China, is set to open on April 2, with a Japanese warship as its first foreign visitor. This move reflects Cambodia’s desire to showcase its openness to international cooperation amid concerns about China’s military influence in the region. The Cambodian government continues to emphasize accessibility for friendly nations while addressing growing scrutiny regarding its ties with Beijing.

Cambodia has finalized the expansion of its naval port, funded by China, with plans to inaugurate the facility on April 2. The Ream Naval Base now boasts a larger pier and a dry dock for repairs. Prime Minister Hun Manet will officiate the inauguration, marking the first port call from a foreign warship, specifically a Japanese vessel, as stated by Major General Thong Solimo, a spokesman for Cambodia’s armed forces.

The port project, which commenced in 2022, raised international concerns regarding its potential usage as a military outpost for China in the Gulf of Thailand. This area falls adjacent to the South China Sea, a vital waterway contested by China. The U.S. continues to conduct military operations there to counter China’s extensive territorial claims.

The announcement of Japan’s upcoming port call suggests that Cambodia is signaling its openness to alliances beyond China, according to defense analyst Euan Graham from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. He described this decision as a “conscious demonstration” to indicate that Ream Naval Base is not solely for Chinese military use.

Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force acknowledged Cambodia’s invitation for its ships to visit, although they declined to provide specific details due to operational security protocols. While China remains Cambodia’s largest investor and key ally, concerns have heightened regarding its increasing military presence and assertiveness in the region.

Speculation regarding a 30-year agreement allowing China substantial military access to Ream raised alarms following a report by The Wall Street Journal in 2019. The Cambodian government has consistently refuted claims of granting China special privileges at the base, despite the latter’s funding of its development and extended docking periods for Chinese vessels.

In September, Cambodia’s Defense Ministry announced China’s plan to provide two warships to the Cambodian navy while the expansion was ongoing. The ministry reiterated its intent to maintain the facility’s accessibility for warships from friendly nations, with conditions that remain unspecified.

The completion of the Ream Naval Base expansion highlights Cambodia’s diplomatic balancing act between its ties with China and an openness to alliances with Japan and possibly other nations. The facility will facilitate the docking of Japanese warships, signifying Cambodia’s effort to reassure international observers regarding its military commitments. However, ongoing suspicions regarding China’s intentions at the base persist, alongside concerns about regional stability in light of China’s increasing military posture.

Original Source: www.military.com

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