Cambodia Celebrates Opening of China-Renovated Ream Naval Base
Cambodia inaugurated the Ream Naval Base, renovated by China, with Prime Minister Hun Manet stating there is “nothing to hide” from U.S. concerns about China’s strategic interests in the region. U.S. officials worry about China’s potential dominance in the Gulf of Thailand, while Cambodians deny exclusive foreign use of the base.
Cambodia officially inaugurated its renovated naval base, Ream, on Saturday, with Prime Minister Hun Manet asserting that there is “nothing to hide” regarding the upgrades. This event follows concerns raised by the United States regarding China’s involvement in modernizing the facility, which is strategically located along Cambodia’s southern coast.
The U.S. has expressed apprehension that the Ream Naval Base could serve as a critical foothold for China in the Gulf of Thailand, particularly amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, which Beijing asserts dominion over. In response, senior Cambodian officials have consistently refuted claims that the new infrastructure is intended solely for the Chinese navy’s use, countering reports from American media that suggested otherwise.
The inauguration of the Ream Naval Base highlights Cambodia’s growing relationship with China amidst U.S. concerns over regional influences. Despite accusations of exclusive Chinese use, Cambodian officials maintain that the base will not be dominated by any single foreign power, emphasizing their sovereignty and independence.
Original Source: www.ashleycountyledger.com
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