Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the expanded Ream Naval Base, developed with China’s assistance, amidst U.S. concerns about its potential use by the Chinese military. He affirmed transparency regarding military cooperation and emphasized the open invitation for allied forces to visit. The base will also host a Japanese vessel soon, illustrating Cambodia’s intent to diversify military relations.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet officiated the inauguration of the newly expanded Ream Naval Base, a project facilitated by China. The enhancements include a newly constructed pier capable of accommodating larger vessels and a dry dock for repairs. These developments have garnered attention due to suspicions from U.S. officials that China has been granted exclusive access to the base, an assertion that Cambodian officials have consistently refuted.

During the inauguration, Prime Minister Hun Manet recognized the importance of the ceremony, occurring just prior to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s impending visit to Cambodia. He commended Xi’s government for its assistance and characterized the bilateral relationship between Cambodia and China as strong and beneficial. Notably, he emphasized that the expansion was transparent and open to visits by warships from allied nations, although larger vessels were restricted due to physical limitations.

In a statement, Hun Manet declared, “I would like to take this opportunity to make it clear that the Cambodian government led by the Cambodian People’s Party has no intention, in the past or today or in the future, of violating its Constitution by allowing any country’s troops to establish exclusive bases on Cambodian territory.”

China’s Defense Ministry announced that a Joint Support and Training Center at Ream Naval Base would facilitate various cooperative operations, including counterterrorism and humanitarian aid. It was stated that personnel from both nations would be stationed at the center, ensuring its operational efficiency based on mutual respect and equal consultation.

Cao Qingfeng of China’s Central Military Commission remarked that the base would serve as a catalyst for enhancing military relations between the two countries. The ceremony was attended by a contingent of Chinese sailors, highlighting the joint military collaboration.

Notably, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, Bridgette Walker, was present at the event but refrained from making comments. The base is soon expected to welcome a Japanese warship as part of Cambodia’s efforts to diversify its military relations, which may serve as a demonstration of its openness to partnerships beyond China.

Euan Graham, a defense analyst, suggested that Cambodia’s invitation to Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force indicates a strategic intention to project a more diversified military cooperation policy. This plan follows concerns that arose after reports in 2019 suggested a long-term military presence for China at Ream.

The port expansion project, which began in 2022, reflects the deepening political, military, and economic ties between Cambodia and China, as evidenced by the demolition of previous U.S. naval structures at the base and the ongoing military support from China to Cambodia’s navy.

The expansion of Ream Naval Base under the supervision of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet signifies growing military collaboration between Cambodia and China, raising suspicions about the strategic implications for U.S. interests. The Cambodian government has stressed transparency and inclusiveness in foreign military cooperation, particularly by welcoming Japanese naval visits. This situation underscores a complex regional dynamic as Cambodia seeks to balance its relationships with major powers while navigating international scrutiny regarding its ties with China.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com

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