Phnom Penh, April 5, 2024: In a demonstration of naval diplomacy and cooperation, the Royal Thai Navy frigate HTMS Bangpakong (FF 456) arrived at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in the province of Preah Sihanouk this morning for a three-day visit to Cambodia.

The arrival of the HTMS Bangpakong, carrying 229 crew members, marks an important occasion to foster solidarity, friendship, and cooperation between the Cambodian and Thai navies. This visit, scheduled from April 5 to April 7, 2024, underscores the strengthening of ties not only between the naval forces but also between the governments of the two countries.

Admiral Ros Veasna, Deputy Commander of the Ream Naval Base, and Admiral Aksok Sisowath, Chief of Naval Command and Deputy Chief of Staff of the Thai Navy, led the welcoming ceremony for the ship. The HTMS Bangpakong, with its specifications of a 1837-ton displacement (2072 tons when fully loaded), a length of 102.78 meters, a width of 11.36 meters, a draft of 4.2 meters, and a height of 26.7 meters, is a testament to the maritime capabilities of the Royal Thai Navy.

During its stay, the commander of the HTMS Bangpakong plans to make courtesy visits to the Sihanoukville Provincial Administration, further cementing the diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand. The program also includes an exchange of experiences and a friendly football match between the two naval forces, highlighting the camaraderie and shared interests of the sailors.

This visit follows closely on the heels of two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessels, DDG-172/TV-3521 SHIMAKAZE and DD-114 SUZUNAMI, which docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in February for a similar three-day visit. These successive naval engagements at Sihanoukville port illustrate Cambodia's growing role as a hub for international naval cooperation in the region.

The HTMS Bangpakong's visit is a clear indicator of the ongoing commitment to peace, security, and mutual support between Cambodia and its international partners, reinforcing the bonds of friendship and cooperation at a time of increasing regional maritime significance.