Published: 2025/12/17 23:04:10

China defends Defense Cooperation with Cambodia and Thailand

China has reaffirmed its normal defense cooperation with both Cambodia and thailand, stating that such collaboration is not directed against any third party. This statement comes amid regional tensions and scrutiny of China’s growing influence in Southeast Asia.

Background and Context

China’s defense ties with Cambodia and Thailand have been steadily increasing in recent years, encompassing areas like joint military exercises, equipment supply, and personnel training. these partnerships are part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its regional security presence and foster closer relationships with its neighbors. The relationship with Cambodia, in particular, has drawn attention due to concerns about potential Chinese military presence at the Ream Naval Base. Reuters reported in june 2023 on a secret agreement granting China exclusive access to the base.

chinese Official’s Statement

According to a report by Global Times on December 17, 2025, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Yushan stated that China maintains normal defense cooperation with both Cambodia and Thailand. Guo emphasized that this cooperation “does not target any third party and has nothing to do with the conflict between the two countries.” He further directed additional inquiries to relevant authorities.

Areas of Cooperation

While specific details of the defense cooperation agreements are frequently enough confidential, publicly available details suggests the following areas of collaboration:

• Joint Military Exercises: China regularly conducts joint military exercises with both Cambodia and Thailand, focusing on areas like counter-terrorism, disaster relief, and maritime security.
• Equipment Supply: China is a significant supplier of military equipment to both countries, providing hardware ranging from small arms to larger systems like armored vehicles and naval vessels.
• Personnel Training: China offers training programs for Cambodian and Thai military personnel, enhancing their skills and capabilities.
• Intelligence Sharing: Limited intelligence sharing likely occurs, focused on regional security threats.

Regional Implications

China’s growing defense cooperation with Cambodia and Thailand is viewed differently by various regional actors. Some countries, like the United States and its allies, express concerns that these partnerships could possibly undermine regional stability and increase China’s military influence. Others see it as a natural outcome of China’s economic and political rise, and a legitimate effort to enhance regional security cooperation. The Council on Foreign Relations provides analysis on the China-Cambodia relationship and its implications for the region.

Key Takeaways

• China maintains normal defense cooperation with Cambodia and Thailand.
• China asserts this cooperation is not aimed at any third party.
• Cooperation includes joint exercises, equipment supply, and personnel training.
• The partnerships have implications for regional security dynamics.