Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet officially reopened the newly renovated Ream Naval Base on Saturday, a project carried out with Chinese support. At the inauguration ceremony, Hun Manet emphasized Cambodia’s transparency and reiterated that the facility is open to international collaboration—not solely to China. The event marks a symbolic move in Cambodia’s evolving geopolitical position, especially in relation to rising tensions in the South China Sea.
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A Strategic Maritime Location
Located on Cambodia’s southern coast, the Ream Naval Base lies near the contested waters of the South China Sea. The United States has voiced concerns that the base could provide China with a significant strategic advantage in the region, enabling a stronger military presence in the Gulf of Thailand. Washington suspects that the upgraded facilities could be used exclusively by China’s navy, a claim Phnom Penh denies.
The Cambodian government has repeatedly stated that no foreign power will have exclusive rights to the base. In 2022, American media reports alleged that the construction was tailored to suit China’s naval operations, sparking international debate.
A Transparent Opening Ceremony
The ceremony included military representatives from several countries, and prominently featured a Chinese delegation. Cambodian and Chinese flags were raised side by side as Prime Minister Hun Manet addressed the crowd.
“This is a live broadcast,” Hun Manet declared. “We want the Cambodian people and the international community to see clearly—we have nothing to hide.” He added that Cambodia welcomes all nations for joint exercises at the Ream facility and that vessels from around the world will be able to dock there.
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China’s Role and Message
Senior Chinese military official Cao Qingfeng spoke at the event, describing the naval base as a “symbol of unwavering friendship” between Cambodia and China. He added that the modernized port will serve as a boost to regional stability and cooperation.
The ceremony appears to be Cambodia’s effort to balance national interests, maintain sovereignty, and project openness, while continuing to deepen ties with Beijing—a move closely monitored by Western powers.
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