Phnom Penh (FN), Nov. 20 – Outgoing US Ambassador to Cambodia William A. Heidt acknowledged Prime Minister Hun Sen’s Monday comments dismissing reports that Cambodia would permit a foreign military base in Cambodia, and noted the importance of continued dialogue on this issue, speaking in a farewell call on Tuesday at Phnom Penh Peace Palace.

In the meeting, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen reassured Ambassador Heidt that Cambodia does not allow foreign military bases in the Kingdom, according to Kao Kim Hourn, Minister Delegate Attached to Prime Minister, who attended the farewell call.

Following the reports of the lack of professionalism and impartiality of Asia Times, accusing the Cambodian government of allow Chinese naval bases in Cambodian coastal area, Ministry of National Defense, Ministry Foreign Affairs, and Cambodian Prime Minister reacted consecutively.

Speaking in the Council of Ministers’ plenary session on Monday, Prime Minister stated that, "I would like to reaffirm that since 1989 until now, there is no foreign troops in Cambodia. As a matter of fact, foreign troops entering Cambodia from 1991 to 1993 was under the UN peacekeeping operations in Cambodia […] In Cambodia, I recognize that there are foreign troops but they are military attaché at respective embassies; there is no foreign troops for combat."

Cambodia does not allow foreign military base on her soil, regardless of army, navy, or air forces, the premier continued.

Article 53 of the Cambodian Constitution stipulates that the Kingdom of Cambodia shall not permit any foreign military base on its territory and shall not have its own military base abroad, except within the framework of a United Nations' request.
=FRESH NEWS