PHNOM PENH – A Japanese vessel will be the first to dock at Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base, a decision based on mutual trust, Cambodia’s military chief informed Japan’s defense attaché as the base’s first phase prepares to become operational in April.

Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, conveyed this development during a courtesy meeting with Hara Takashi, the newly appointed head of Japan’s Military Office in Cambodia, on March 18 at the High Command Headquarters.

According to the High Command, Japan’s priority access to the base reflects the historically strong cooperation, diplomatic openness, and mutual trust between the two nations under their comprehensive strategic partnership.

Cambodia elevated its diplomatic ties with Japan to the highest level of a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2023.

Senate President Hun Sen had previously announced that a Japanese ship would be the first to dock at Ream Naval Base during his meeting with Japan’s national security adviser in December 2024.

“The Commander-in-Chief reiterated the position of the government that after the inauguration of the first phase, it will be open to ships from other countries that visit or participate in exercises in Cambodia to dock at Ream Port after the Japanese ships,” the High Command stated.

During the meeting, Takashi praised the close cooperation between the Japanese and Cambodian navies and expressed appreciation for Japan being granted priority access. This move, he noted, underscores Cambodia’s commitment to transparency in enhancing international security, according to the High Command.

Concerns have been mounting that the Ream Naval Base could be exclusively used by China, as Beijing has been heavily involved in its expansion. The upgrade, carried out by the China Metallurgical Group Corporation, has been funded by China, fueling speculation over Beijing’s strategic interests in the region.

Former Defense Minister Tea Banh has repeatedly dismissed allegations that the base would be for China’s exclusive use, defending the expansion as part of Cambodia’s broader military modernization efforts.

Pisen confirmed that the first phase of the base will be inaugurated in early April.

Beyond assisting in the base’s renovation off the Gulf of Thailand in Sihanoukville, China has also donated two warships to Cambodia, further strengthening military cooperation between the two nations.