Cambodia Assures US Navy on Ream Naval Base Access

Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol announced that the U.S. Navy would be welcome at the Ream Naval Base, which has been expanded with Chinese support, but is intended for Cambodia's own national defense, not for Chinese military use. He emphasized that the base would be open to any nation's military for humanitarian missions and joint exercises once completed, while recommending that U.S. ships be smaller due to shallow waters. This statement comes amid rising concerns from the Pentagon that the base could become a Chinese military outpost, especially given reports of Chinese naval presence there. Ties between the U.S. and Cambodia have soured over issues such as political repression and China's increasing influence in the region. Despite the invitation, Cambodian officials have faced scrutiny for demolishing U.S.-built facilities and allowing Chinese military access. The Ream Naval Base's strategic location is significant amid ongoing territorial disputes involving China and several Southeast Asian nations.