Phnom Penh (FN), Jan. 24 – Cambodian Prime Minister stated the development of the Ream Naval Base and other military capabilities aims to strengthen Cambodia's defence and is not intended to threaten or engage in warfare with any nation, speaking on Wednesday (Jan. 24) at the 25th anniversary of the establishment of Cambodian Royal Army Command Headquarters.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei also underlined that the Ream Naval Base, currently under development, will not allow any set up of foreign military bases.

Premier Hun Manet underscored, "I would like to reiterate that the Ream Naval Base is often mentioned in the newspaper. Article 53 of our Constitution makes it clear that Cambodia does not allow foreign military bases on its territory, and Cambodian troops also have no base on any territory except under the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions.

I already confirmed this matter at the UN, and Samdech Techo Hun Sen also regularly affirmed it. I would like to reiterate the capacity-building efforts of the Cambodian Navy and Air Force, solely for the defence of the Cambodian nation and not to initiate war with any party."

Prime Minister Hun Manet also affirmed that there is no international law prohibiting countries from modernizing their defence capabilities. Strengthening the army's capacity is aimed at participating in maintaining peace and stability, both within Cambodia and regionally.

Meanwhile, Samdech Thipadei added that Cambodian forces working under the UN peacekeeping missions need to enhance their capacity to integrate effectively with other nations. The premier underscored that the new government has introduced various reforms to strengthen the armed forces' capabilities.
=FRESH NEWS