Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the expansion of the Ream Naval Base, raising concerns over potential Chinese military use. The base’s enhancements include a new pier and dry dock. While Cambodia reassures that it remains open to foreign military collaboration, reports suggested that China could obtain exclusive access. The visit of a Japanese warship emphasizes Cambodia’s intention to project a balanced foreign relationship amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet presided over the inauguration of an expanded naval base, increasing concerns regarding its potential use by China as a strategic outpost. The Ream Naval Base’s recent developments include a new pier for larger vessels and a dry dock, situated on the Gulf of Thailand. The U.S. government remains wary, suspecting that China holds exclusive privileges for its use, a claim Cambodia’s officials deny.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized the nation’s transparent engagement, noting that warships from all allied nations can visit the base for joint exercises, with restrictions only for very large vessels. He clarified, “the Cambodian government… has no intention… of allowing any country’s troops to establish exclusive bases on Cambodian territory.”

China’s Defense Ministry announced that the newly launched Ream Naval Base Joint Support and Training Center will facilitate joint operations on counterterrorism, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance. The cooperation is defined as being based on mutual respect and equal consultation, with personnel from both countries stationed to ensure its operation.

Cao Qingfeng, a senior Chinese military official, remarked that the base signifies a new phase in military collaboration between China and Cambodia. Furthermore, a contingent of Chinese naval personnel participated in the ceremony. While the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, Bridgette Walker, attended, she abstained from commenting on the event.

Amidst concerns over Chinese influence, Cambodia has announced plans to receive a Japanese vessel as the first foreign warship to call at the Ream base, suggesting a desire to demonstrate openness towards other nations. Euan Graham, a senior defense analyst, observed that this move appears intentional to illustrate that the Ream base is not intended solely for China’s military purposes.

Concerns over the Ream base escalated following a report in 2019 regarding a potential 30-year arrangement with China, permitting military personnel and naval assets. The construction project began in 2022, highlighting the deepening collaboration between Cambodia and China, a move that included dismantling previously established U.S. naval structures. Additionally, Cambodia’s Defense Ministry indicated that as part of this expansion, China would provide two naval vessels to strengthen Cambodia’s maritime capabilities.

The expansion of the Ream Naval Base in Cambodia signifies growing ties between Cambodia and China, raising international concerns about China’s military intentions in the region. Despite allegations of exclusive access, Cambodia’s leadership insists on transparency and inclusivity regarding naval operations. Future engagements with military forces from other nations, including Japan, serve to validate Cambodia’s stance on maintaining an open maritime strategy. The broader geopolitical implications of this base expansion will likely be monitored closely by other global powers, particularly the United States.

Original Source: wtop.com

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