Cambodia Inaugurates China-Backed Naval Base Amid International Scrutiny

Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasizes openness to all nations as the upgraded Ream Naval Base officially opens, with Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit planned later this month.

• Cambodia officially inaugurated the renovated Ream Naval Base on April 5, 2025, emphasizing its openness to ships from all nations, including an upcoming port call by a Japanese warship.
• The base, redeveloped with significant Chinese assistance, now features a new pier and dry dock capable of accommodating larger vessels, enhancing its operational capacity.
• Prime Minister Hun Manet reiterated that the base would not be used exclusively by China, addressing long-standing U.S. concerns about potential strategic use by Beijing near the South China Sea.
• Chinese military officials described the base as a symbol of the strong China-Cambodia partnership and highlighted plans for joint operations, including counterterrorism and humanitarian efforts.
• Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit Cambodia later in April, further solidifying bilateral ties following China's substantial investment in the base's redevelopment.

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