US warship visits Cambodia after 8 years, near China-backed naval base: Video
A US warship has arrived in Cambodia amidst tense relations between the US and Cambodia.
The docking of the USS Savannah in Sihanoukville is significant as the first American military visit to the country in eight years.
The warship docked just 30 kilometres from a Chinese-renovated naval base that has raised concerns in Washington.
The ship’s commanding officer, Daniel A. Sledz, said it was “great to be back” and hoped the visit would strengthen ties between the two nations. Cambodian officials welcomed the US crew and said the visit aimed to promote friendship and cooperation. This comes after years of deteriorating relations between Phnom Penh and Washington.
Meanwhile, China has been funding upgrades to Cambodia’s Ream naval base, which the US fears could be used for Beijing’s military. Cambodian leaders have denied these claims, but China’s presence in the region remains a concern.
