Vietnam Cautions on Cambodia-China Military Exercises Amid Regional Concerns
Vietnam's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stressed the importance of international cooperation aligning with international law and the UN Charter, amidst regional concerns over the ongoing joint military exercises between China and Cambodia. The cooperation should actively contribute to peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the region and globally, Hang said. The Golden Dragon 2025 exercise, which began on May 14, includes land, air, and naval drills, showcasing the military assets deployed by both countries.
Key Takeaways:
- Vietnam emphasizes the need for international cooperation to align with international law and the UN Charter.
- The Golden Dragon 2025 exercise aims to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Cambodia, deepen political trust, and enhance military collaboration.
- The exercise features significant military assets, including helicopters, ships, tanks, armoured vehicles, artillery, and drones.
- The Cambodian forces contributed 67 years of diplomatic ties with China, highlighting the growth of cooperation, particularly in the military sphere.
- The joint exercise demonstrates a shared commitment to peace and development between the two nations.
- General Vong Pisen stressed the success of military cooperation between Cambodia and China, reflecting the strong bonds between the nations-brothers and ironclad friends.
- Seun Sam, a policy analyst at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, noted that the exercise promotes peace and stability while enhancing Cambodia's military capabilities.
Statistics:
- The joint exercise includes land, air, and naval drills, featuring significant military assets.
- The Chinese side contributed 53 rubber-tired combat vehicles, including armoured vehicles, mobile artillery, and drones.
- The Cambodian forces deployed helicopters, ships, tanks, armoured vehicles, artillery, mortars, ambulances, and various infantry weapons.
- The Golden Dragon 2025 exercise began on May 14 and will run until June 28.
Sources:
- Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs Statement (no date provided)
- Pham Thu Hang's remarks at a regular press briefing in Hanoi
- Major General Lyu Guangkun's speech at the opening ceremony of the Golden Dragon 2025 exercise
- General Vong Pisen's statement at the Golden Dragon 2025 exercise
- Seun Sam's statement on the Royal Academy of Cambodia website