March 25, 2024
PHNOM PENH – General Mao Sophan, deputy commander of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) and commander of the Royal Cambodian Army, is leading a high-level military delegation on a four-day official visit to China. The March 25-29 trip aims to enhance cooperation between their armies, in accordance with the two nations’ comprehensive strategic partnership.
The overseas mission – his first as army commander since his predecessor Hun Manet became prime minister last August – was at the invitation of General Li Qiaoming, commander of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) ground force, according to a March 22 press release by the Cambodian Army.
During his visit, Sophan will pay a courtesy call on Chinese Minister of National Defence Dong Jun and hold talks with Li to further strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.
“This visit aims to contribute to supporting the progress of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, as well as building the Cambodia-China Community of Common Destiny in the New Era,” it added.
Seun Sam, an international relations researcher at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, described the visit as important.
He explained that the Cambodian army has close relations with other countries’ armies, such as Australia and Singapore, but believes that strengthening ties with the Chinese military could be very beneficial, especially in terms of improving its military capabilities.
“More than 100 countries in the world receive support from China, and as a close friend, Cambodia should take advantage of this opportunity. Expanding cooperation with China, such as in the military sector, is crucial for Cambodia,” he said.
While noting some criticism of the close Sino-Cambodian relations, Sam said the need to strengthen the national economy and military capacity should be the government’s primary focus.
He opined that Cambodia is pursuing the right foreign policy line, with openness to all countries.
Seng Vanly, a lecturer of international relations and regional politics observer, described the visit as part of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two sides. He said Cambodia has benefited greatly from military cooperation with China, with continued provision of aid and equipment which helps reduce military expenses.
“There are both positive and negative aspects to this relationship. On the positive side, it is important for the defence sector and boosts economic growth. However, the military closeness between them concerns some ASEAN member states as well as several countries in the West, particularly the US. Some of them believe the modernisation of China’s military threatens regional security,” he opined.
Vanly added that despite Western concerns, he doubted that Cambodia would allow the presence of Chinese military bases on its territory.