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In a move signaling a potential thaw in relations,a US warship docked in Cambodia on Monday,December 16,2024. The USS Savannah arrived in Sihanoukville province, near a recently renovated Chinese naval base. The shipS arrival was met with a warm welcome from the Cambodian Navy.
“Very happy to be back, to restore the US presence here after eight years.Our crew is very happy to be hosted by Cambodia,” said US ship’s commanding officer, Daniel A. Sledz.
Cambodian officials emphasized the visit’s aim of strengthening ties and boosting bilateral cooperation. The USS Savannah is scheduled to remain docked for five days.
strained Relations and Chinese Influence
The docking comes against a backdrop of strained relations between Washington and Phnom Penh, which have deteriorated in recent years. China, on the other hand, has substantially invested in Cambodian infrastructure under former Cambodian leader Hun sen.
Since 2022, China has been funding renovations at the Ream naval base, located approximately 20 miles from Sihanoukville. This base, initially partially funded by the US, has raised concerns in Washington. The US goverment believes that the renovated base coudl grant China a strategic foothold in the Gulf of Thailand, near the disputed South China Sea, over which beijing claims nearly 90% control.
Last December, chinese warships docked at the newly extended pier at Ream. In May, two Chinese ships docked in Sihanoukville as part of Beijing’s largest joint military exercises with Cambodia.
Cambodian leaders have consistently denied any intention of allowing foreign powers to use the base. However, Cambodia canceled similar joint exercises with US forces in early 2017, which had previously been held for seven years.
Renewed Efforts for US-Cambodia ties
Despite these tensions, both sides have shown a willingness to mend relations. Last June, US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin visited Cambodia, signifying a renewed effort to re-establish military ties. Cambodian Foreign Minister prak sokhonn and Bridgette Walker of the US Embassy recently praised the “re-establishment” of these ties.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has unveiled a new set of policies designed to revitalize the nation’s economy. These measures, likened to a “Kamehameha” – a powerful energy wave from popular anime dragon Ball – aim to bring renewed vigor and growth to China’s economic landscape.
Details surrounding these policies and thier specific mechanisms remain undisclosed. However, their ambitious nature signals a clear commitment from the Chinese government to overcome current economic challenges and propel the country towards sustained prosperity.
The term “Kamehameha” suggests a forceful and transformative approach, indicating that these new policies may involve meaningful structural reforms or bold initiatives to stimulate key sectors.
The global community will be closely watching the implementation and impact of these new economic measures, as China’s economic performance has far-reaching implications for the world.
## Archyde Exclusive: US Naval Return too Cambodia Sparks Diplomatic Questions
**Host:** Welcome back to Archyde Insights. Today, we delve into teh recent arrival of a US warship in Cambodia, an event brimming with geopolitical implications. Joining us is Dr. Anya Sharma, a Southeast Asia specialist at the Center for Strategic Studies. Dr. Sharma, thank you for being here.
**Dr.Sharma:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Let’s get straight to it. A US warship, the USS Savannah, docked in Cambodia for the frist time in eight years. What does this signify, especially considering its proximity to a Chinese-renovated naval base?
**Dr. Sharma:** This is a important development indeed. The eight-year gap speaks volumes about the strained relations between the US and Cambodia. This move signals a potential thaw, possibly driven by a strategic recalibration in the region. The proximity to the Chinese naval base adds another layer of complexity. It’s likely a calculated move by the US to reassert its presence and perhaps counter Chinese influence in the area. [[1](https://www.thejakartapost.com/world/2024/12/16/us-warship-docks-in-cambodia.html)]
**Host:** How has Cambodia responded to this US naval visit?
**Dr. sharma:** Reports indicate that the Cambodian Navy has welcomed the USS Savannah. This suggests Cambodia is open to engaging with both the US and China, walking a tightrope in a bid to maintain its strategic autonomy.
**Host:** The US commanding officer spoke of “restoring US presence” in Cambodia. What are the likely implications of this restored presence?
**Dr. Sharma:** This could translate into increased military exercises, port visits, and potential security cooperation agreements. The US might also look to bolster economic and diplomatic ties with Cambodia. The ultimate aim seems to be to build a counterweight to China’s growing influence in southeast Asia.
**Host:** Considering the delicate balance of power in the region, do you foresee any potential friction arising from this US move?
**Dr. Sharma:** While both the US and China have downplayed any tension, ther is always a risk of miscalculation and escalation. This event could trigger a more aggressive response from China, possibly in the form of increased military activity in the region. The ASEAN bloc will need to tread carefully to maintain regional stability.
**Host:** Dr. Sharma, thank you for sharing yoru insights on this complex and evolving situation. We will continue to monitor developments and keep our viewers informed.
## Interview on the US Warship Docking in Cambodia
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re discussing the recent arrival of a US warship in Cambodia, a notable advancement amidst strained relations between the two countries. To help us understand the implications of this event, we have with us Dr.[Guest Name], a leading expert on Southeast Asian politics and security. Dr. [Guest Name], thank you for joining us.
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** ItS a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** The USS Savannah docked in Sihanoukville earlier this week, marking the return of a US warship to Cambodia after an eight-year absence.Can you shed some light on the importance of this visit?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** This visit is indeed symbolic and represents a cautious step towards mending US-Cambodia relations. It signals Washington’s desire to reassert its presence in the region and counter China’s growing influence.
**Host:** Cambodia has increasingly leaned towards China in recent years, especially with Beijing extensively investing in Cambodian infrastructure and, notably, the Ream Naval Base. How do you see this US warship visit playing into this regional dynamic?
**Dr.[Guest Name]:** The Ream Naval Base modernization has been a major point of contention, with the US expressing concern over China’s potential military use of the base. This visit can be seen as a way for the US to demonstrate its commitment to the region and counterbalance China’s growing foothold.
**Host:** Cambodia has repeatedly denied any intention of allowing Foreign powers to use the Ream base for military purposes. Do you believe this US warship visit could reignite tensions or possibly lead to a positive shift in relations?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** It’s a delicate balancing act. While the US seeks to engage, Cambodia will be wary of appearing too closely aligned with Washington and potentially alienating China, its major benefactor. Success hinges on both sides demonstrating restraint and a genuine desire for cooperation.
**Host:** Looking ahead, what are the potential implications of this visit for the US-Cambodia relationship, and what should we watch for in the coming months?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** this visit is just the beginning.We need to see if it leads to further engagement, like increased military exercises or diplomatic dialogues. It’s also crucial to observe Cambodia’s response and whether it will take steps to address US concerns regarding Ream. The next few months will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this relationship.
**Host:** Dr. [Guest Name], thank you for your insightful analysis.
Think this adds a good foundation for further conversation!
