In a significant move to fortify the friendship between Cambodia and China, two warships of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy made a five-day stop at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. The visit from May 19 to 23, 2024, not only symbolizes the deepening military cooperation between the two nations but also opens avenues for cultural exchange and public engagement.
Rear Admiral from the Tactical Command Headquarter of the General Secretariat of the National Committee for Maritime Security conveyed this news to Fresh News on Sunday, May 19. Two naval vessels, the Qi Jiguang No. 83, a training ship, and the Jinggang Shan No. 999, a landing ship, anchored at the port as part of the initiative.
The Rear Admiral disclosed that the arrival of the warships was significant for expanding the camaraderie and alliance between China’s military and the Kingdom of Cambodia. The visiting delegation comprised commanders and crews from both ships arriving with the aim to solidify bilateral relations.
Throughout their stay, the Chinese delegates were scheduled to engage in various diplomatic endeavors, including courtesy visits to the senior leadership ranks within the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces as well as officials within the Sihanoukville administrative district. To foster closer bonds between the two nations, the Chinese contingent hosted a celebratory event aboard one of their vessels.
Moreover, the Chinese ships were open to Cambodian citizens for tours, laying the groundwork for insightful educational discussions, cultural engagements, and athletic competitions. Such interactive events are instrumental in promoting understanding and fostering friendly ties between the countries.
Adding further detail, the Rear Admiral provided specifications of the visiting warships. The Qi Jiguang No. 83 is configured for training purposes and measures 165.3 meters in length, 22.2 meters in width, and 6.8 meters in draft, equipped to carry payloads up to 9,000 tons and capable of reaching speeds up to 22 knots. The Jinggang Shan No. 999 is a heftier landing ship with a load capacity of 25,000 tons, stretching to a length of 210 meters, a width of 28 meters, with a 7-meter draft, and capable of navigating at 25 knots.
The Chinese delegation was led by Rear Admiral Shao Shuguang, the Director General of the Dalian Chinese Academy of People’s Liberation Army Institute. His leadership role underscored the importance of the mission in the broader context of China-Cambodia bilateral relations.
The docking of these Chinese naval vessels in Cambodia is reflective of ongoing efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries. This show of martial presence and diplomatic activity underscores the mutual interest in cementing a sustainable, cooperative, and mutually beneficial relationship.
Source: Fresh News
