Kampong Chhnang, May 16, 2024 – The sixth joint military exercise between the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and the Chinese People's Liberation Army, known as the "Golden Dragon" Exercise, commenced today with more than 2,000 troops engaging in rigorous training aimed at enhancing anti-terrorism and humanitarian capabilities. The exercise, taking place in Phnom Chum Sen Reak Rey, Kampong Chhnang, and Sihanoukville, will run until May 30, 2024.

This year’s exercise was inaugurated by General Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and Admiral Kao Xivqing, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Southern Region of the Chinese People's Liberation Army. Both leaders emphasized the importance of the drills in strengthening military cooperation and readiness in national and regional security contexts, without posing a threat to other nations.

The 2024 "Golden Dragon" features a display of military prowess, including 14 warships and extensive land-based equipment such as 69 armored vehicles, various intelligence, explosive ordnance disposal, and chemical transport equipment. Live ammunition drills are a key component, reflecting the serious nature of the exercise’s objectives to exchange experiences and tactics in counter-terrorism, drone warfare, and other advanced military operations.

Major General Thong Solimo, spokesman for the General Command, outlined that the exercises would take place at the Gendarmerie Training Center in Chrak Kov village, highlighting the scale and strategic intent behind the annual bilateral cooperation. This joint exercise underscores the deepening military ties between Cambodia and China, as both nations seek to bolster their defenses and cooperative security efforts on a global stage.