Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 17 – Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen stated that the presence of the US warship USS Savannah in Cambodia reflects strong relations in the defence and military sectors, enhancing confidence and broader cooperation between the two nations.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen received a courtesy call by Chargé d’Affaires a.i., of the US Embassy in Cambodia Bridgette L. Walker on Tuesday (Dec. 17) at the Senate.
During the meeting, Samdech Techo noted that the visit of the USS Savannah highlights strengthened defence and military ties, following the Cambodian army commander’s recent trip to Hawaii, and bolsters confidence alongside existing collaboration, including USAID activities.
Bridgette L. Walker informed Samdech Techo that, following US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin’s visit to Cambodia, the presence of the USS Savannah – the first such visit in eight years – demonstrates the enduring relationship and fruitful cooperation between the two countries, not only in the military domain but also in health, education, and demining sectors.
The USS Savannah (LCS 28), commanded by Daniel A. Sledz, is officially visiting Cambodia for five days, from 16-20 December 2024. Upon arrival at the Cambodian port, the US Navy ship received a warm welcome from Rear Admiral Mean Savoeun, Deputy Commander of the Royal Cambodian Naval Base, alongside several other naval base commanders.
The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence views the ship’s visit as a step towards reinforcing and expanding friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and the United States. Since 2007, a total of 27 US Navy warships have visited Cambodian ports, with this being the first visit in eight years.
During the five-day stay, the ship’s delegation has planned a series of activities aimed at promoting cultural exchange and cooperation. These include meetings with the commander of the Ream Naval Base and the leaders of the Sihanoukville Provincial Administration, a friendly sports competition between the US and Cambodian naval crews to foster camaraderie, and several other engagement programmes.
This visit marks another milestone in the evolving partnership between Cambodia and the US.
In June 2024, US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin visited Cambodia and held discussions with Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, and Minister of National Defence Tea Seiha. His one-day visit was regarded as a significant step in advancing defence relations and cooperation between the two nations.
=FRESH NEWS
