Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the expanded Ream Naval Base, which has attracted U.S. scrutiny over its ties to China. Enhanced facilities include a new pier and dry dock. Despite concerns of exclusive Chinese military access, Manet emphasized the base’s openness to warships from other nations, including Japan. U.S. officials remain cautious as China strengthens military cooperation with Cambodia.

On Saturday in Sihanoukville, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the expansion of the Ream Naval Base, a key facility with potential strategic implications due to its ties with China. The enhancements include a new pier for larger vessels and a dry dock for repairs, completed recently and indicative of Cambodia’s close cooperation with China amidst U.S. concerns.

Prime Minister Manet indicated that this ceremony was strategically timed with the upcoming visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, expressing appreciation for China’s contributions to the base’s development. He assured attendees that the Ream Naval Base remains open to friendly warships from various nations, albeit with restrictions on larger vessels.

Manet emphasized the Cambodian government’s commitment to its Constitution, denying any plans to host foreign troops exclusively at the base. Meanwhile, China’s Defense Ministry conveyed that the new Joint Support and Training Center at Ream will enhance collaborative efforts in counterterrorism, humanitarian aid, and joint training exercises, underlining a cooperative bilateral relationship.

Cao Qingfeng of China’s Central Military Commission proclaimed that the naval base would bolster military ties between China and Cambodia. The ceremony also featured the attendance of over 100 Chinese sailors, symbolizing the deepening defense cooperation between the two nations.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Bridgette Walker was present at the event but chose not to comment. Additionally, a Japanese vessel is set to be the first foreign warship to visit the base, suggesting Cambodia’s intention to diversify its military partnerships and counteract perceptions of exclusivity with China.

Concerns regarding the base’s usage surfaced following reports suggesting a draft agreement allowing China exclusive military access for 30 years, a claim that raises regional security apprehensions. China’s involvement with the naval base symbolizes a profound political, military, and economic alignment between the two nations, as highlighted by recent developments, including the promise of two warships to Cambodia’s navy during the expansion efforts.

In conclusion, the expansion of the Ream Naval Base showcases Cambodia’s strengthening ties with China amidst international scrutiny. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has reinforced that the base remains accessible to other nations’ warships, reflecting an attempt to project openness. However, the underlying concerns regarding potential Chinese military dominance at the facility persist, highlighting the delicate balance Cambodia aims to achieve among global powers.

Original Source: www.thestar.com

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