Chinese Warships Dock in Cambodia for Joint Military Drills
Sihanoukville, Cambodia – Two Chinese warships recently docked in Cambodia as part of extensive joint military exercises with the Southeast Asian nation, underscoring the strong ties between the two countries.
Friendship and Cooperation
China and Cambodia have a longstanding friendship, with Cambodia being a key ally of China and a recipient of significant Chinese investment over the years.
Joint Military Drills
The joint military drills involved the training ship Qijiguang and amphibious warfare ship Jinggangshan docking at Sihanoukville for 15 days of land and sea exercises. The drills included 760 Chinese military personnel, approximately 1,300 Cambodians, and 11 Cambodian vessels.
Peace and Friendship
As the training ship Qijiguang approached the port, it displayed a banner that read “Bring peace and friendship to meet good friends,” emphasizing the spirit of the joint exercises.
Security and Regional Impact
Chinese Ambassador Wang Wentian highlighted the importance of China-Cambodia military cooperation for the security of both countries and the region. However, concerns have been raised about Beijing’s potential use of a Cambodian naval base on the Gulf of Thailand to expand its influence in the region.
Strategic Concerns
Washington has expressed worries that China’s involvement in upgrading the Ream naval base could provide Beijing with a strategic advantage in the Gulf of Thailand, particularly in the context of the disputed South China Sea.
Emphasizing Friendship and Cooperation
Ambassador Wang reiterated that wherever the Chinese navy goes, it aims to promote friendship and cooperation, downplaying concerns about China’s growing influence.
Military Demonstrations
During the drills, China showcased its military hardware, including innovative technologies such as robodogs – remote-controlled robots with mounted automatic rifles. The demonstrations focused on the robots’ mobility rather than their combat capabilities.
Deepening Ties
The joint military drills followed a visit by China’s top diplomat Wang Yi to Cambodia in April, signaling the ongoing efforts to strengthen the relationship between the two countries.