Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base is at the center of speculations regarding China’s military expansion, with the presence of Chinese warships and facilities raising concerns among US officials. Despite Cambodia’s denials, satellite images confirm the increasing Chinese footprint in the region. The US-China military balance is shifting, as China aims to become a global military power through initiatives like the Belt and Road. Partnerships with Cambodia, once allied with the US, have now shifted to China, leading to suspicions of a potential Chinese military base at Ream.
While Cambodia’s constitution prohibits permanent foreign military presence, the continuous docking of Chinese vessels at Ream raises skepticism. Neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam are wary of a Chinese base at the mouth of the Gulf of Thailand, fearing regional instability. Analysts believe that while a permanent Chinese presence may not offer significant strategic advantages, it could influence intelligence gathering and monitoring capabilities. As concerns over Chinese military expansion grow, the geopolitical landscape in Southeast Asia remains tense, with implications for regional security.
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