Cambodia's armed forces launched their largest joint military exercise with China

Reuters

Cambodia's armed forces launched their largest-ever Golden Dragon joint military exercise with China on Wednesday, set to include land, sea, and air operations over the next two weeks.

The exercise marks a continuation of the deepening military ties between the two nations.

First initiated in 2016, the Golden Dragon exercises have become a symbol of Cambodia’s growing partnership with China. This development follows Cambodia's cancellation of similar exercises with the United States. Recently, however, Cambodian officials have expressed interest in reviving military drills with U.S. forces, following a series of high-level visits from U.S. officials seeking to strengthen Washington's influence in the region.

China is Cambodia’s closest ally in Southeast Asia, providing significant aid and investment that has fueled Cambodia’s rapid economic growth. Chinese President Xi Jinping further cemented this relationship during his state visit to Cambodia in April. 

Tags

Comments (0)

What is your opinion on this topic?

Leave the first comment