China and Cambodia have commenced the "Golden Dragon-2025" joint military exercises following the official inauguration of the China-Cambodia Joint Support and Training Center located at Port Ream.

The opening ceremony took place over the weekend, signifying a milestone in military collaboration between the two nations.

The exercises, which were held at the newly established center, featured warships from both countries conducting various training operations including formation maneuvers, maritime communication, and equipment drills.

These activities are aimed at enhancing interoperability and joint operational capabilities between the Chinese and Cambodian armed forces.

The "Golden Dragon" joint exercise series, a regular military collaboration initiative between the two countries, has been successfully conducted six times prior to this event.

The recent drills represent the first instance of the "Golden Dragon" series being executed at this new facility, illustrating both nations' commitment to maintaining regional stability through military cooperation.

Chinese military experts have noted that the construction of the center, supported by China, has equipped the naval port with comprehensive facilities to aid various naval operations.

It is anticipated that such joint exercises will increase in frequency, potentially encompassing not only naval forces but also land and air components.

This expansion could further solidify friendly exchanges and collaborative security efforts in the South China Sea.

The joint center is under a mutually beneficial operational framework, contrasting with China's military base in Djibouti, which operates independently of local forces.

The joint nature of the Ream center reflects an agreement based on mutual respect and equality, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Cambodian military and fulfilling international obligations.

Camodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, accompanied by a delegation from the People's Liberation Army, attended the inauguration ceremony.

He reiterated the importance of this partnership, emphasizing the legitimacy of Cambodia's military modernization efforts and denying any claims that the facility would serve as an exclusive base for China.

Hun Manet also expressed gratitude for China's ongoing support in bolstering Cambodia's defense capabilities and asserted that the naval base would remain open to warships from all friendly nations for docking and collaboration in military exercises.

Reports from the inauguration highlighted a commitment from both nations to further their cooperation, which includes joint training, technological exchange, and strategic military coordination.

Recognizing the potential for greater regional peace and stability, experts assert that the joint support center will play a crucial role in promoting mutual trust and collaborative maritime security.