United States Commits to Further Strengthening Defence Cooperation with Cambodia
United States Commits to Further Strengthening Defence Cooperation with Cambodia
On the morning of 14 August 2026, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, received a courtesy call from His Excellency Elbridge A. Colby, Under Secretary of War for Policy of the United States Department of War, at the Peace Palace.
During the meeting, the Under Secretary praised the progress made in US–Cambodia bilateral relations, particularly in the field of defence. He highlighted that the United States is committed to cooperation based on mutual respect, respect for sovereignty, and shared interests. The Under Secretary emphasised that Cambodia is an important partner of the United States and reaffirmed that the United States would continue to further strengthen defence cooperation with Cambodia.
In response, Samdech Thipadei expressed his great pleasure at the positive progress in Cambodia–US relations, including in the defence sector. Samdech Thipadei highly valued the continued extensive military cooperation between the two countries and reaffirmed his commitment to further advancing this cooperation. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made in preparations for the “Angkor Sentinel” military exercise scheduled for 2027, as well as ongoing cooperation to strengthen the capabilities of the Cambodian armed forces. Samdech Thipadei stressed that joint exercises and training not only enhance capabilities but also serve as a bridge for fostering close friendship between the armed forces of the two countries. On that occasion, Samdech Thipadei also expressed his gratitude to His Excellency President Donald J. Trump and the US Government for facilitating the previous ceasefire and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement of 26 October 2025, as well as for their continued attention to promoting peace between Cambodia and Thailand.
Before concluding the meeting, Samdech Thipadei briefed the US Under Secretary of War on the latest developments concerning the Cambodia–Thailand border situation, highlighting Cambodia’s commitment and position to pursue a peaceful resolution of border issues on the basis of international law and in accordance with the existing conventions, treaties, and agreements between the two countries.
SP-STPM Unofficial Translation
