US warship visits Cambodian naval base

The US warship made a port call Saturday at a Cambodian naval base for the first time since the Chinese-funded renovations have raised concerns in Washington.

The Ream Naval Base, off Cambodia’s southern coast, could give China a key strategic position in the Gulf of Thailand near the disputed South China Sea. “It is privilege and honorable to be here as the first US naval vessel to moor pier side at Ream Naval Base, and this is the beginning of a longstanding tradition and friendship,” the ship’s commanding officer, told reporters.

Officials at the Ream base said that the five-day US visit would “promote bilateral cooperation and Cambodia’s “commitment in implementing an open policy, transparent and cooperation with international partners”.