US warship docks in Cambodia for first time in 8 years

An American warship docked Cambodia a few kilometers from a naval base renovated by China, in the first American military stopover to one of Beijing’s closest regional allies in eight years.

Relations between Washington and Phnom Penh deteriorate for yearsas China pours billions of dollars into infrastructure investments under former Cambodian leader. Hun Sen.

Cambodian navy personnel welcomed the arrival of the USS Savannah in the southern port city of Sihanoukville on Monday.

The ship’s commander, Daniel A. Sledz, said “it’s great to be back, after eight years of American presence here,” adding that his crew was “very happy” to be welcomed to Cambodia.

The U.S. Embassy released a statement on social media Monday saying the warship was on a “goodwill visit” aimed at “strengthening coordination and response between the United States and Cambodia to common security challenges.” maritime security”.

Daniel A. Sledz (left), commanding officer of the USS Savannah, receives a bouquet of flowers from Cambodian naval personnel at Sihanoukville Port on Monday. Photo: AP

Cambodia’s Defense Ministry said Friday that the five-day visit aims to “strengthen and expand friendship” and “promote bilateral cooperation.”