China provides military aid to Cambodia, continues joint "Golden Dragon" exercises
China has agreed to provide a large sum of military aid to Cambodia to strengthen defense ties with the country.
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Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen (right) and Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe in Phnom Penh on June 18. Photo: Reuters. |
The $130 million military aid was announced by Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe on Sunday while attending a military exhibition in Phnom Penh as part of his visit to Cambodia from June 16 to June 20.Khmer Timestoday news
Cambodian Defense Ministry spokesman Chhum Sucheat said the aid could be used for whatever Phnom Penh requested. "Mr. Wei did not specify what kind of equipment we would have to buy, but only stressed that the money was for use in all necessary cases. In addition, the two countries will continue the joint 'Golden Dragon' exercise next year," Mr. Sucheat said.
According to Sucheat, the military aid is aimed at strengthening defense ties between Cambodia and China. "Both sides are committed to building stronger relations, especially in the defense field," he said.
China has been the largest donor to Cambodia in recent years. In addition to military aid, Beijing in 2017 provided Phnom Penh with $11 million to help organize local elections. According to statistics, China's total investment in Cambodia in 2017 reached $11.2 billion.
Since 2016, Cambodia has indefinitely suspended joint military exercises with the US, but has twice held joint exercises with China.
