Sihanoukville (FN), Apr. 5 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that the Cambodian Navy will soon receive two warships to enhance its naval operations—aimed at safeguarding peace, stability, and maritime security, supporting search and rescue missions, and conducting humanitarian activities. He stressed that Cambodia welcomes all parties genuinely willing to assist, not only China.
The premier spoke on Saturday (Apr. 5) at the inauguration of Ream naval base and Cambodia-China Joint Logistics and Training Centre in Sihanoukville.
“In the future, we will have two warships for patrolling, protection, and information-sharing. I believe that the Navy, the Admirals, the Vice Admirals, and all the sailors will take pride in the modernisation and growing capabilities of our naval forces—and I am proud too,” the premier underscored.
Samdech Thipadei underlined that true patriots should collectively support the building of a strong national defence capacity, the advancement of military capabilities, and the modernisation of the defence sector to ensure Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity in the long run.
With increasing efforts to modernise the national defence sector, the prime minister affirmed that the Royal Government of Cambodia will continue to enhance the military’s strength—investing in both human capital and technological upgrades, particularly for the Navy. This is part of the government's long-term commitment under the leadership of the Cambodian People’s Party.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also highlighted that protecting Cambodia’s territorial integrity is not limited to land, despite the country’s relatively small maritime territory. The Cambodian Navy, he said, must be prepared to participate in maintaining regional security and engaging in joint patrols—making naval modernisation a national priority.
“We have now been invited to join patrol missions. We are not yet participating, but once we have two warships, our Navy will join exercises, contribute to regional security, and do so with pride and equality—there is no shame in that. Any soldier has a love for their weapon,” the premier continued.
The premier added that although Cambodia remains a developing country, it has made significant efforts to enhance its capacities across all sectors. Defence has not been overlooked. The Royal Government continues to work with various partners to strengthen the Navy, Army, Air Force, Military Police, and Police Force—core institutions responsible for protecting the nation and its people.
On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei reiterated that reinforcing the military’s capacity does not violate the Constitution or compromise national sovereignty; rather, it is necessary for protecting territorial integrity and responding effectively to various challenges, including natural disasters. He stressed the importance of increasing the Navy’s maritime capabilities through regular patrols, search and rescue training, and mission-readiness.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet further explained that improving interoperability with regional armed forces and building basic operational capacity—such as maritime surveillance and island patrols—is vital. The Cambodian Navy must also develop the technical skills needed to combat transnational crime and prevent terrorist infiltration. These capabilities, he said, are being gradually built with support from international security partners, particularly from China, which has already contributed visibly.
In response to criticisms about alleged Chinese military presence at Ream, the Royal Government reaffirmed that Cambodia is a sovereign nation, fully entitled to build and develop partnerships that serve the national interest. All cooperation, the government stressed, remains consistent with the principles and objectives of the Cambodian Constitution.
=FRESH NEWS
