China Gifts Warships to Cambodia Navy

Cambodia's Defense Ministry has announced that China will gift the Cambodian navy two Type 56 corvettes, raising concerns about a potential permanent Chinese military presence at the strategically significant Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand. The warships, expected to arrive next year, coincide with the ongoing expansion of the base, which has been financially supported by Beijing. Maly Socheata, the ministry's spokesperson, confirmed that the gift was in response to Cambodia's request for enhanced naval capabilities, although she did not address speculation about the possible transfer of upgraded facilities at the base. The U.S. and regional powers are alarmed, fearing that these developments may grant China strategic access to vital maritime routes, including the Malacca Strait. Despite these concerns, Cambodian officials emphasize that their cooperation with China aligns with national sovereignty and constitutional principles. China's Foreign Affairs Ministry has refrained from commenting on the specifics of the warship transfer or the base expansion.