Cambodia, Singapore enhance security through cooperation
Samban Chandara
CAMBODIA and Singapore have agreed to advance military cooperation, focusing on human resource training, counter-terrorism and combating transnational crime.
This commitment aims to bolster peace, stability and prosperity in both countries, the region and globally.
The decision came following a meeting between Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) commander-in-chief General Vong Pisen and Singapore’s chief of defence force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng. The meeting took place on February 20 during Pisen’s attendance at the recently held Singapore Airshow, as announced by the RCAF General Command.
During their meeting, Pisen asked his Singaporean counterpart to continue promoting cooperation through capacity-building exercises, reciprocal visits, information sharing, as well as humanitarian operations, disaster relief and military collaboration between the two countries.
Bang voiced his support and commended the ongoing cooperation between the two militaries, aiming for ongoing improvement in the future.
Thong Mengdavid, research supervisor at the Asian Vision Institute, said the Cambodian government is prioritising military modernisation through increased cooperation with friendly nations. However, he said limited military capacity and technology hinder its ability to contribute to regional stability and security, objectives shared by all ASEAN countries.
“Regional insecurity, which has led to international political change and superpower rivalry, has led to an increase in the arms race in the region, a threat posed by non-state actors such as terrorist groups. This necessitates Cambodia’s development of a capable military and modern weaponry to effectively manage and uphold both national and regional security,” he said.
He welcomed cooperation with Singapore, which supports the modernisation of the military, through technical assistance, training and sharing experience. This collaboration aims to reinforce national and regional security and stability without posing a threat to any country.
Seun Sam, an international policy researcher at the Royal Academy of Cambodia (RAC), praised the cooperation between the two countries.
“Strengthening the military relationship between Cambodia and Singapore, particularly in information technology training, is beneficial. Singapore’s expertise in military information technology offers valuable insights, enhancing our defence capabilities,” he said.
He added that deepening relations with Singapore, particularly in the military realm, has facilitated Cambodia’s diplomatic engagement with the West.
“Previously criticised for perceived bias towards China, Cambodia’s efforts have helped dispel such notions, despite rumours of a Chinese military base within its territory,” he said.
General Pisen led a Cambodian delegation to the Singapore Airshow on February 19, a major biennial event in the AsiaPacific region that showcases innovative products, technologies and services in the aerospace and defence sectors, attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the world.