(Kampong Chhnang): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed that a recent retreat meeting had been convened to discuss ongoing reforms of the armed forces. He emphasized that military reform and modernisation must remain a continuous process.

The premier spoke on Monday (Jul. 14) during the inauguration of achievements at the Royal Gendarmerie Training Centre (Phnom Chum Sen Reak Reay) coinciding with the 32nd anniversary celebration of the Royal Gendarmerie Day (14 July 1993 – 14 July 2025) in Kampong Chhnang Province.

“A few days ago, a retreat meeting was held with the participation of the minister of national defence, the commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, the commander of the Royal Cambodian Army, and other military experts to assess and advance the next phase of military reform and modernisation,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei continued that, based on past experience and current challenges, Cambodia’s present capabilities are sufficient to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity. He noted that national leadership must focus on reinforcing key areas of defence reform, which require collective effort. Evaluating, strengthening, and modernising the armed forces are essential steps toward enhancing their effectiveness moving forward.

Samdech Thipadei elaborated that military modernisation must progress in three core areas: infrastructure development, human resource enhancement, and equipment upgrades.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Hun Manet also announced that the national defence budget would be increased to further bolster the sector. He clarified that this effort to strengthen and modernise Cambodia’s defence capabilities is not intended to threaten or provoke any other nation, but rather to ensure the country's ability to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
=FRESH NEWS