General Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), takes part in the virtual Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defence (CHODs) meeting on Wednesday. AKP
Cambodia is reaffirming its commitment to regional security cooperation, calling for deeper collaboration to address mounting threats in the Indo-Pacific, from cybercrime to geopolitical tensions.
General Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), underscored Cambodia’s position during the virtual Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defence (CHODs) meeting on Wednesday. The high-level session, chaired by Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, focused on enhancing security coordination and strengthening strategic partnerships across the region.
Pisen outlined a range of security concerns, including cybercrime, transnational crime, terrorism, maritime security threats, climate change, and natural disasters. He called for deeper cooperation among nations, advocating for enhanced resource-sharing, skill exchanges, and the formulation of comprehensive strategic plans to tackle these growing challenges.
He emphasized the importance of seamless coordination between military forces and civilian agencies to reinforce regional stability. Acknowledging the existing defense partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, Pisen stressed their critical role in maintaining peace and prosperity. He also reaffirmed Cambodia’s readiness to participate in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief initiatives.
Pisen’s remarks align with the commitments made by Prime Minister Hun Manet during his December meeting with Paparo. The Cambodian leader reaffirmed continued security cooperation with the U.S., particularly in the search for the remains of missing American soldiers in Cambodia. Paparo, in turn, pledged to deepen military ties through increased exchanges, training programs, and joint exercises.
Geopolitical Tensions Shape Security Outlook
Security concerns in the Indo-Pacific are increasingly shaped by territorial disputes, major power rivalries, and non-traditional threats. The South China Sea and Taiwan Strait remain focal points of regional tensions, with China asserting control over disputed territories, raising concerns among Southeast Asian nations and the U.S. The broader U.S.-China competition continues to be a dominant force influencing security dynamics in the region.
North Korea’s nuclear program remains an ongoing threat, particularly for South Korea and Japan. In Southeast Asia, terrorism and cyberattacks are growing concerns, while maritime security remains a critical issue for safeguarding global trade routes against piracy.
Beyond military and strategic threats, climate change and resource scarcity are emerging as significant destabilizing factors, particularly for island nations facing rising sea levels. Regional alliances such as the Quad—a diplomatic and security coalition of Australia, India, Japan, and the U.S.—along with bilateral security agreements, play a pivotal role in countering these challenges.
As the Indo-Pacific navigates an increasingly complex security environment, Cambodia’s latest commitments signal its intent to play a more active role in regional stability efforts.
