AKP Phnom Penh, April 21, 2025 --

Following the arrival of two Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels — Bungo and Etazima — at Ream Naval Base, Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has announced that more foreign warships are expected to visit the base in the near future.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Kampot International Tourism Port in Teuk Chhou district, Kampot province, this morning, the Premier confirmed that the Japanese warships, which docked on April 19, will soon be followed by vessels from Vietnam, India, and Russia.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also noted that the United States Navy could potentially visit Ream Naval Base as well in the future.

“We will cooperate with all countries in the security sector — whether it is China, Japan, or others — we welcome them all. After Japan, we will welcome Vietnam, India, and Russia. [...] The U.S. might also consider returning. We welcome everyone. This is a clear demonstration of our policy,” he underlined.

Since 2022, Ream Naval Base has undergone significant renovation and upgrades, expanding across a total area of 787,673 square metres. The upgraded facilities include a military port, a 5,000-tonne dry dock, a 1,000-tonne slipway, office buildings, dormitories, and various logistics infrastructure. With these enhancements, the base is now capable of accommodating vessels of up to 20,000 tonnes.

The Prime Minister also reiterated that the Ream Naval Base remains fully under Cambodian sovereignty and control.

The Japanese vessels Bungo and Etazima are the first foreign warships to dock at Ream Naval Base since the official inauguration of its Phase 1 development on April 5, 2025 under the presidency of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet.

The two ships, under the command of Captain Shinsuke Amano, Commander of Minesweeper Division 3, are scheduled to stay in Cambodia until April 22, 2025.

By Heng Panha