Cambodia signs a defence memorandum of understanding with Russia

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Russian Federation. The MoU was signed by the Commander of the Cambodian Army and his Russian counterpart.

It is intended to enhance the cooperative ties between the armies of the two countries. This information was released by the Royal Cambodian Army in a press release. It was issued as General Mao Sophan, commander of the Cambodian Army and deputy commander of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), prepared to embark on a three-day visit to Russia from 18 to 20 June, where he is meeting with his Russian counterpart Oleg Salyukov.

During the visit, the commanders of the Cambodian and Russian armies will sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cooperation between their respective land forces.

“This will serve to strengthen and expand cooperation between the two armies, in the spirit of traditional friendship, respect and mutual support.”, the document says.

In March, Sophan led a military delegation to China, where he met with General Li Qiaoming, the commander of the army of the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

In an interview with The Post, Kin Phea, director of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, posited that the development of military relations between Cambodia and Russia appears to be based on their traditional friendship, which dates back to the Cold War.

He further elaborated that Cambodia is not expanding its security or defence relations or cooperation with any nation or group of nations for the purpose of making war or threatening another nation or bloc.

"A review of the Cambodian government's intentions reveals a desire to expand defence relations and cooperation with all countries. This is based on the principles of respect for the sovereignty, independence and internal affairs of all nations," he added.