Cambodia Celebrates Inauguration of China-Renovated Naval Base at Ream

Cambodia inaugurated the renovated Ream Naval Base, funded by China, amid U.S. concerns regarding China’s military presence in the region. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized transparency and the facility’s accessibility for joint exercises with other nations. Senior Chinese officials hailed the partnership, indicating the base will enhance regional security amidst Cambodia’s longstanding alliance with China.

Cambodia’s leader, Prime Minister Hun Manet, inaugurated a renovated naval base, Ream, which has undergone significant upgrades funded by China. During the ceremony, he emphasized transparency, stating that there was “nothing to hide.” Concerns have been raised by the United States over the potential strategic advantages this base offers to China in the Gulf of Thailand, particularly near the disputed South China Sea.

Despite U.S. apprehensions, Cambodian officials asserted that the naval base is not designated exclusively for Chinese military operations. Reports from U.S. media in 2022 suggested that the renovated facilities were intended solely for use by the Chinese navy, a claim denied by Cambodian senior officials.

The inauguration event was attended by military representatives from various nations, notably a delegation from China’s People’s Liberation Army. Flags of Cambodia and China were prominently displayed in a ceremony marked by Hun Manet’s proclamation that the base would facilitate joint military exercises and not be limited to any single nation’s forces.

Cao Qingfeng, a senior Chinese military official, expressed that the upgraded port signified the strong partnership between Cambodia and China, projecting that its use would enhance regional security and collaboration. He confirmed that joint military exercises, including the upcoming Golden Dragon drills, would take place at the facility.

Historically, Cambodia has positioned itself as a close ally of China, especially since the regime of Hun Sen, the father of Prime Minister Hun Manet, during which significant Chinese investments were made in Cambodian infrastructure. Hun Manet announced that Chinese President Xi Jinping is slated to visit Cambodia later this month.

China’s involvement at the Ream Naval Base has been ongoing since 2022, with the base originally established partially through U.S. funding. Concerns surrounding the base’s purpose and its implications date back to 2019, when reports surfaced regarding a confidential agreement permitting the docking of Chinese warships.

In summary, Cambodia’s recent inauguration of the renovated Ream Naval Base, upgraded with Chinese assistance, highlights the strengthening ties between Cambodia and China amidst U.S. concerns. Prime Minister Hun Manet’s assurances underscore Cambodia’s commitment to transparency and collaboration with multiple nations, as well as the strategic implications this partnership may hold for regional security. The historical context of U.S.-Cambodian relations further complicates these dynamics, especially with China’s growing influence in Southeast Asia.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com