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In a changing geopolitical context, Vietnam And Cambodia deepen their partnership in terms of defense to solidify their strategic relationships. The recent visit of Vietnamese Defense Minister General Phan Van Giang to Cambodia demonstrates the two nations’ commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and promoting joint initiatives to ensure the regional security. This collaboration is part of a broader framework which also includes the Laos, highlighting the importance of regional unity in the face of contemporary challenges and complex geopolitical dynamics.
The recent official visit of Vietnamese Defense Minister General Phan Van Giang to Cambodia between November 23 and 26, 2024, demonstrates the desire of the two nations to strengthen their defense cooperation. During this trip, several strategic meetings took place, aimed at deepening bilateral relations and establishing joint cooperation mechanisms. The joint search and rescue exercise involving the armed forces of the three countries – Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos – was also a focal point of this collaboration.
Official visit and strategic meetings
Minister Phan Van Giang held high-level meetings with Cambodian officials, including Chairman of the Cambodian People’s Party Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet. The opportunity was taken to discuss mutual efforts in security and defense, but also to strengthen the traditional friendship between the two countries. This speech of strengthening friendly relations was reciprocal, with Samdech Techo Hun Sen emphasizing the importance of ties between Vietnam and Cambodia.
Promotion of trilateral cooperation
Beyond bilateral relations, the meeting also focused on promoting defense cooperation between Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. One of the main objectives of this initiative is to guarantee the security and stability of the region by consolidating common efforts in the face of contemporary challenges. The Vietnamese minister expressed his hope that Cambodian agencies and the defense structure of the three countries will work closely together to ensure the effective implementation of the signed agreements.
Strengthening military capabilities
Discussions also focused on the need to share information, improve joint patrols and combat cross-border crime. In this context, Cambodia is committed to supporting Vietnamese army companies operating effectively on its territory, thus contributing to the economic development of both countries.
Progress in defense cooperation
During the visit, a defense cooperation protocol for the period 2025-2029 was signed, marking a new era in military relations between Vietnam and Cambodia. The ministers expressed their satisfaction with the results obtained through existing cooperation, while agreeing to deepen exchanges and develop concrete projects for the future. This cooperation focuses in particular on maintaining high-level meetings and effective management of land and maritime borders.
Symbols of friendship and solidarity
Minister Phan Van Giang also took advantage of his visit to present a Labor Order to Metfone, a Cambodian company in the telecommunications sector, symbol of strategic economic relations between Vietnam and Cambodia. During this meeting, the minister recalled Vietnam’s historic support for the Cambodian people, while expressing the desire to continue to elevate bilateral relations to new heights.
Conclusion of the visit
Finally, this visit and the commitments made not only strengthen the defensive relations between Vietnam and Cambodia, but also their influence and their role within ASEAN. The strategic partner that these two nations are becoming demonstrates a common desire for development and stability in the Southeast Asian region.
FAQ on Vietnam-Cambodia Defense Partnership
What was the main objective of the Vietnamese Defense Minister’s official visit to Cambodia? The main objective of the visit was to promote and deepen defense cooperation between Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as strengthen trilateral relations between Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
What activities were carried out during this visit? The minister participated in an annual meeting with his Cambodian and Lao counterparts, as well as a joint search and rescue exercise between the armies of the three countries.
What types of meetings took place during this visit? Several high-level meetings were held, including with the President of the Cambodian People’s Party and the Cambodian Prime Minister.
How does Vietnam view its relationship with Cambodia? Vietnam considers the consolidation and continued development of relations of traditional friendship, global cooperation and long-term sustainability with Cambodia as a top priority.
What were Cambodia’s reactions to this visit? The Cambodian Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Vietnam for its past and current support, stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and defense cooperation.
What protocol was signed during this visit? A defense cooperation protocol for the period 2025-2029 was signed, as well as a cooperation plan for 2025.
What contributions has Vietnam made to Cambodia over the past 15 years? Vietnam was recognized for its outstanding contributions through Metfone, a Cambodian subsidiary of the Viettel Military and Telecommunications Group, considered a symbol of friendship and economic cooperation between the two countries.
How important is defense cooperation for the two countries? Defense cooperation is seen as one of the key pillars of Vietnam-Cambodia relations, contributing to peace, stability and development in the region.