AKP Phnom Penh, April 04, 2025 -- 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, H.E. General Tea Seiha, conducted a morale-boosting visit to naval troops stationed on Cambodia's islands and in Koh Kong province within Military Region 3 on April 3, ahead of the Khmer New Year celebrations.

Accompanied by H.E. General Ith Sarath, Deputy Commander-in-Chief and Joint Chief of Staff of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), and other high-ranking military officials, H.E. General Tea Seiha’s visit aimed to express appreciation for the troops' dedication and reinforce the nation's commitment to maritime security.

H.E. Admiral Tea Sokha, Commander of the Royal Cambodian Navy (RCN) and Secretary-General of the National Committee for Maritime Security, welcomed the delegation and provided a comprehensive overview of Cambodia's ongoing efforts to safeguard its extensive coastline, which spans the provinces of Kep, Kampot, Preah Sihanouk, and Koh Kong.

On the occasion, the RCN commander briefed H.E. General Tea Seiha on Cambodia's robust naval cooperation with its neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam, especially on joint patrols, experience exchange, intelligence sharing, joint operations, and maritime law enforcement, targeting transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, piracy, and ensuring effective maritime rescue operations.

General Tea Seiha commended the naval personnel for their unwavering commitment to defending Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He underlined the critical role of maritime security in maintaining national stability, a cornerstone for Cambodia's sustained development.

The national defence minister conveyed New Year greetings from key national leaders, and urged the troops to uphold their duty with unwavering loyalty, unity, and discipline, emphasising the importance of peace as a catalyst for Cambodia's rapid progress.

In the spirit of the Khmer Traditional New Year, H.E. General Tea Seiha extended warm wishes to all naval personnel stationed on the islands and in Koh Kong province, wishing them success, health, and strength in their duties. To support their celebrations, he provided financial assistance for traditional New Year festivities.

By K. Rithy Reak