Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force two ships docked at the Ream Naval Base in Cambodia on April 19th, marking the first time foreign vessels have docked at this base, which has been expanded with support from China. Amid China’s strengthened maritime activities, Japan is looking to enhance cooperation with Cambodia.
According to reports from NHK, the minesweeper tender “Bungo” and minesweeper “Etajima” of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force docked at the Ream Naval Base in southwest Cambodia, where a special welcome ceremony was held.
Regarding the significance of the Self-Defense Force docking in Cambodia, Commander Shinsuke Amano, commanding officer of the 3rd minesweeper squadron and a Navy lieutenant commander, stated that “the strengthening of the cooperation between Japan and Cambodia symbolizes the long-standing relationship between the two countries.” The Cambodian Navy authorities expressed a warm welcome.
The Ream Naval Base in Cambodia underwent renovations and expansions funded by China, which were completed earlier this month. This marks the first time foreign ships have docked at this base after its renovation. The United States has expressed concerns that the base could be used by China for military purposes, while Japan hopes that docking at the Ream Naval Base will strengthen cooperation between Japan and Cambodia.
Reports indicate that Cambodia’s decision to allow Japanese ships to dock, given the ongoing U.S. efforts to counter China’s influence and pressure on Cambodia, is aimed at achieving a balance between China and the U.S., as Japan is an ally of the U.S.
(Source: Central News Agency)