AKP Phnom Penh, February 28, 2025 --

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha, held a bilateral meeting with Indonesian Minister of Defence H.E. Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat in Penang, Malaysia, on Feb. 26 afternoon.

During the meeting, the Indonesian minister reaffirmed the strong defence cooperation between the Cambodian and Indonesian armed forces, particularly between the Indonesian National Armed Forces and Cambodia’s Special Forces Command under the Royal Cambodian Army.

He emphasised that the close military ties between the two nations have strengthened their overall bilateral relationship.

Indonesia, he said, remains committed to further enhancing defence cooperation with Cambodia, recognising it as a key strategic partner in the region.

In response, H.E. Gen. Tea Seiha congratulated H.E. Lt. Gen. Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin on his appointment and acknowledged Indonesia’s significant role in addressing regional security challenges and maintaining peace and stability.

He also highlighted Indonesia’s contributions to training Cambodian Special Forces, which play a crucial role in supporting the Cambodian government—particularly in disaster relief operations and combating various forms of crime.

The Cambodian defence minister expressed Cambodia’s desire for continued Indonesian support in training its Special Forces to further develop the capabilities of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF).

The Indonesian defence minister responded positively, reaffirming Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening its defence partnership with Cambodia and continuing its support for the Cambodian Special Forces.

By K. Rithy Reak