ASEANEWS HEADLINE-FREE PRESS | CAMBODIA: Business | BREAKING NEWS” Cambodia to welcome US Navy ships at modernised Ream Naval Base amid concerns of Chinese influence
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In a speech delivered at a programme organised by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, DC, on October 1, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol addressed the ongoing modernisation of the Ream Naval Base in Cambodia.
He confirmed that once the base upgrades are complete, naval forces from any country, including the US, would be welcome to visit the port. This statement comes amid concerns from the US and its allies about growing Chinese influence in Cambodia.
Chanthol, who also serves as the First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, reassured the audience that while China had assisted Cambodia in modernising the Ream Naval Base, the upgrades were for Cambodia’s defence and not intended for Chinese military use.
“The modernisation of Ream Naval Base is for Cambodia’s defence purposes and not for opposing any other country,” he emphasised.
The Ream Naval Base, located in Sihanoukville, has been the subject of international scrutiny, particularly from the United States and its allies. Western powers have expressed concerns over Cambodia’s independence and the potential expansion of Chinese military influence in the region.
Memento Maxima Digital MarketingThis apprehension stems from reports that several US-funded buildings were demolished to make way for new Chinese-backed infrastructure at the base. However, Cambodian officials have repeatedly dismissed such concerns, citing the country’s constitution, which prohibits the establishment of foreign military bases on Cambodian soil.
In a recent statement, Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the Cambodian Ministry of National Defence, reiterated that the modernisation efforts at Ream Naval Base align with Cambodia’s national security objectives. She also noted that China had provided two warships, at Cambodia’s request, to strengthen the nation’s naval capabilities. The ships, identified as Type 056C corvettes, are expected to be delivered in 2025.
Cambodia will welcome US Navy ships at the modernised Ream Naval Base amid concerns about Chinese influence.
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