Cambodia Enhances Naval Base with Chinese Support Amid International Concerns

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated an expansive upgrade of the Ream Naval Base, enhanced with Chinese support. The renovations raise suspicions regarding its potential use as a strategic China outpost, but affirmations of collaboration with other nations such as Japan indicate a broader military openness. Cambodia aims to maintain balanced international relations amidst rising concerns over Chinese influence.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet officiated the inauguration of an expanded naval base, significantly upgraded through Chinese assistance. The enhancements include a new pier for larger vessels and a dry dock, situated at Ream Naval Base in southern Cambodia, which prompts concern among U.S. analysts regarding its potential use as a strategic outpost by China.

The development of the Ream Naval Base has drawn scrutiny from the United States, which suspects that China may be granted exclusive operational privileges, a claim denied by Cambodian authorities. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that the base is accessible for military engagements with other friendly nations, stating, “I would like to take this opportunity to make it clear that… the Cambodian government… has no intention… of allowing any country’s troops to establish exclusive bases on Cambodian territory.”

Hun Manet also expressed appreciation towards China, noting their supportive role in the base’s expansion during a ceremony leading up to a planned visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping. The expansion includes a joint support and training center to facilitate collaborative operations in areas such as counterterrorism and humanitarian assistance, supported by personnel from both nations.

Cao Qingfeng, a high-ranking member of China’s military, remarked that the base will enhance military relations between Cambodia and China, describing it as a “new starting point” for cooperation. Cambodian officials confirm that a Japanese warship will soon make the first foreign port call at Ream, symbolizing Cambodia’s intention to maintain a diverse international military partnership, as noted by defense analyst Euan Graham.

Concerns regarding China’s influence at the Ream base have been evident since a 2019 report suggested a long-term agreement for military use. This upgrade demonstrates Cambodia and China’s growing political and military collaboration, which has involved the demolition of prior U.S.-constructed naval facilities. Furthermore, Cambodia’s Defense Ministry previously announced that two warships would be gifted by China, further solidifying this alliance.

The recent expansion of the Ream Naval Base underscores Cambodia’s strategic military ties with China, raising concerns regarding potential exclusivity for Chinese operations. Nonetheless, the inclusion of Japanese naval visits suggests Cambodia’s intention to project openness to other allies. The developments reflect significant political and military collaborations between Cambodia and China, while simultaneously addressing international scrutiny regarding military access and partnerships.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk

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