Cambodia expands naval base amid suspicions of Chinese military presence

Cambodia is witnessing significant developments in its naval capabilities as Prime Minister Hun Manet officiated the recent expansion of the Ream Naval Base located on the Gulf of Thailand. This upgrade includes a new pier that will enable the docking of larger vessels and the construction of a dry dock for ship repairs. The timing of this expansion has raised concerns in the international community, particularly among United States officials, given China's close ties with Cambodia. The U.S. government suspects that the expansion may serve as a strategic outpost for China, a claim that has been denied by Cambodian authorities. The project drew attention due to the previously reported suspicions that China might receive exclusive privileges at the Ream base, allowing military personnel to be stationed there and to conduct joint operations alongside Cambodian forces. Prime Minister Hun Manet assured that no foreign military will have exclusive access to Cambodian territory, emphasizing that the base will remain open to friendly countries for joint exercises, albeit with restrictions on larger warships. The involvement of China and their assistance in this expansion project has led to further skepticism about intentions behind the military upgrades. During the opening ceremony, officials underscored the collaborative efforts between Cambodia and China, marked by the establishment of a Joint Support and Training Center. This center aims to bolster joint military operations and cooperation between the two nations. A contingent of Chinese sailors participated in the ceremony, highlighting the presence and influence of China at the base. Despite the escalating concerns regarding China's activities, the Cambodian government is signaling openness to military cooperation beyond its ties with China, as evidenced by the planned port call of a Japanese vessel, which would mark the first foreign warship visit to Ream. The strategic positioning of the Ream Naval Base coupled with Cambodia's relationship with China poses diplomatic complexities in the region, prompting defense analysts to scrutinize Cambodia’s military alignments. The installation of Chinese naval capacities in Cambodia may amplify security concerns for neighboring countries, as geopolitical tensions in Southeast Asia continue to evolve. With a backdrop of warships from Japan set to visit, Cambodia appears to be navigating a delicate balance between its commitments to China while fostering defense ties with other nations as well.