Defence military modernisation and capacity building are an obligation of each of the nations in accordance with national, regional and global security situation.
Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Samdech Pichey Sena Tea Banh highlighted the point in his address at the recent 19th Asia Security Summit in Singapore.
What is essential is the use of military capability for justice and legitimacy especially to serve the common good of humanity, he said.
The deputy prime minister made the clarification following repeated accusations by some western media outlets baselessly saying Cambodia is allowing China to set up its military station at the Ream Naval Base of Cambodia.
Such groundless and biased accusations are a complete disgrace to the Cambodian government and authorities, he added.
Samdech Pichey Sena Tea Banh reaffirmed that Cambodia is the owner of Ream Naval Base and the development of the base is by no means a threat to regional security.
Cambodia is a small nation who deeply treasures peace and stability as well as liberal multi-party democracy and the country needs good cooperation and friends across the world.
He underlined that Cambodia is an independent, sovereign state and has full rights to manage its national destiny and the Article 53 of Cambodia Constitution clearly state that the country must not allow foreign military bases on its territory.
Cambodia reserves the right to receive foreign aid for military modernisation and capacity building and welcomes assistance from all countries.
