Japan and Cambodia Boost Defence Ties Amid Rising Chinese Influence

Japan's defence minister, Minoru Kihara, held high-level talks in Cambodia to enhance defence cooperation. This visit, part of a Southeast Asian trip, seeks to counter China's influence by deepening partnerships in the region. The discussions included promoting human resources cooperation and planning joint military training courses.

Minoru Kihara, Japan's defence minister, initiated talks in Cambodia, a key ally of China, as he embarked on a Southeast Asian tour that includes Vietnam. These efforts aim to strengthen Japan's partnerships and counter China's growing influence.

Kihara met with Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha, Prime Minister Hun Manet, and Senate President Hun Sen to discuss enhancing cooperation, particularly in human resources and personnel exchanges, as outlined in a 2013 memorandum of understanding.

The defence ministers agreed to conduct joint military training focusing on disaster rescue operations and to exchange military attachés, reinforcing Japan's strategic partnerships in Southeast Asia.