Cambodia Celebrates Opening of China-Renovated Naval Base
Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the Ream Naval Base, renovated by China, asserting its openness to all nations amid U.S. concerns. Cambodian officials deny exclusive Chinese military use. The event highlighted the strong Sino-Cambodian relations, showcasing the strategic implications for regional security as military exercises are planned, including future collaborations with Japan and the U.S.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet officiated the opening of the renovated Ream Naval Base, emphasizing there is “nothing to hide” regarding its upgrades funded by China. This inauguration occurred amidst U.S. concerns about China’s evolving influence in the region, particularly as the base near the Gulf of Thailand is strategically significant near the disputed South China Sea. Senior Cambodian officials have refuted claims that the base is solely for Chinese military use, in response to previous reports suggesting otherwise.
At the inauguration ceremony attended by military representatives from various nations, Hun Manet expressed pride in the ceremony’s significance, stating, “We hold the live inauguration today because we want both Cambodian people, and people and all forces around the world to stop casting doubt about it.” He reiterated that the upgraded facility would accommodate vessels from various nations, not just those from Beijing.
Chinese military official Cao Qingfeng also welcomed the opening, stating that the port exemplified the “iron-clad friendship” between Cambodia and China, asserting it would enhance regional security and facilitate joint military exercises, including the upcoming annual Golden Dragon drills. Cambodia has been a steadfast ally of China, with significant financial investments in infrastructure made by Beijing over recent years, particularly under the tenure of former Prime Minister Hun Sen.
Prime Minister Manet confirmed plans for an upcoming visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping, underscoring the strengthening ties between the two nations. Since 2022, China has been pivotal in the renovation of the Ream Naval Base, despite its original construction being partially funded by the U.S. Relations between the U.S. and Cambodia have soured in recent years, particularly following the emergence of concerns about a potential agreement allowing the docking of Chinese warships at the strategic port.
Notably, by late 2023, Chinese naval vessels had begun docking at the newly constructed pier, signifying a substantial shift in military dynamics in the region. Cambodia is also poised to receive two warships from China to bolster its defense capabilities. In December, the U.S. Navy made a rare visit to Cambodia with a warship docked in Sihanoukville, marking the first call in nearly eight years, aimed at enhancing bilateral defense relations.
The inauguration of the renovated Ream Naval Base by Prime Minister Hun Manet highlights Cambodia’s strengthened ties with China amidst rising tensions with the U.S. The Cambodian government maintains that the base will not be exclusively for Chinese use, despite international skepticism. The ceremony not only signifies China’s continued influence in Cambodia but also reflects the regional geopolitical realignment as military partnerships are actively sought with multiple nations, including China and Japan.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
Post Comment