AKP Phnom Penh, January 27, 2026 -- Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, H.E. General Tea Seiha, met with H.E. Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, on Monday to strengthen bilateral military ties and discuss regional security.

The high-level talks took place against the backdrop of a port call by the USS Cincinnati (LCS 20) at the Ream Naval Base in Preah Sihanouk province. The Independence-variant littoral combat ship is stationed at the base from Jan. 24 to 28, 2026, marking a significant step in enhancing cooperation between the Cambodian and U.S. navies.

According to a statement from the Ministry of National Defence, the engagement focused on several key strategic areas.

Both leaders toured the USS Cincinnati, emphasising practical collaboration and maritime security efforts.

H.E. General Tea Seiha expressed gratitude for continued U.S. attention to the Cambodian-Thai border situation and support for the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) framework.

The Minister highlighted the importance of the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration and urged momentum for the Joint Border Committee (JBC) in its mission to finalise border demarcation between Cambodia and Thailand.

By K. Rithy Reak