Phnom Penh, 7 April 2023 (TDI): Cambodia and China jointly conducted a military drill called “Golden Dragon” between the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The military exercise began at the Royal Gendarmerie Training Centre in Peam Commune, Sameakki Mean Chey district, Kampong Chhnang province.
The point was made by Samdech Pichey Sena Tea Banh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, during the closing ceremony of the joint military training in Kampong Chhnang province on April 5.
The two partners strive to foster a win-win attitude to humanity’s common destiny, according to Samdech Tea Banh.
The golden dragon exercise was critical for Cambodia-China strategic relations that are responsive to contemporary global developments and challenges, as well as in keeping with the two governments’ strong commitment.
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The Deputy Prime Minister also praised the drill organizing committees’ efforts and collaboration in ensuring a seamless and effective joint exercise.
The exercise, the fifth of its type, lasted two weeks entitled “Security Operations in Major Events and Humanitarian Relief.”
According to RCAF Spokesperson, Major General Thong Solimo, the training directly engaged 583 Cambodian soldiers and 257 PLA personnel.
The “Golden Dragon” military exercise, which began in 2016, aims to exchange experience and strengthen the capacity of the RCAF and PLA in humanitarian operations.
Moreover, it includes disaster relief, and counter-terrorism within the UN framework, through cooperation between the two countries’ Ministries of National Defense.
Cambodia is one of China’s oldest and closest political partners, with the two nations exchanging regular state and high-level visits.
Cambodia has likewise been a staunch backer of the one-China policy. The bilateral ties between the two countries are unbreakable as they share a long history.
Economically, China is Cambodia’s largest foreign investor, a big contributor, and a growing commercial partner. China’s track record of investment reflects its aim for global growth and ever-closer cooperation with Cambodia.
