The US’ Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) committed to training senior Cambodian military officers, ranging from majors to colonels and major generals.

The pledge was made during an August 1 meeting between General Sem Sovanny, director-general of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces (NPMEC), and APCSS acting director Russell Bailey in Phnom Penh.

“Bailey highlighted the importance of training provided to NPMEC. The training courses are not only attended by representatives from about 30 to 40 countries, but also increase national and international security awareness among senior Cambodian military officers from the rank of major to colonel and major general,” NPMEC said in an August 1 press release.

The US has provided training and mentoring to the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) through the Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI), focusing on peacekeeping operations and other training courses for military and commanding officers, observers and the peacekeeping division.

“In addition to providing training for senior officers … Sovanny also requested APCSS to provide additional training for junior military officers,” the release stated.

Thong Mengdavid, a lecturer at the Royal University of Phnom Penh’s Institute for International Studies, said APCSS has played an important role in maintaining and strengthening military relations between Cambodia and the US.

He emphasised that the restoration and strengthening of Cambodian-US relations, especially in military cooperation, is a priority for modernising Cambodia’s military. He said this includes expanding understanding and skills, as well as acquiring new knowledge and experience from the US military.

“In the context of intense geopolitical rivalry, Cambodia needs friendly countries and development partners to increase cooperation in security and regional stability protection, as well as to build trust,” Mengdavid told The Post on August 1.