The recent docking of two Japanese destroyers in Cambodia helped strengthen cooperation between the two nations’ navies, especially in maritime rescue operations and the enforcement of maritime law, such as those banning the trafficking of humans or drugs, said a senior official.

Preah Sihanouk provincial deputy governor Long Dimanche made the remarks following his meeting with Captain Yanagihara Makoto, commander of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s (JMSDF) Training Division 1, as the latter led a JMSDF mission to the province.

The two vessels docked in Preah Sihanouk port for a three-day visit from February 22-24.

Dimanche said on February 25 that as Preah Sihanouk is a coastal province, with many islands, it welcomes multi-national military cooperation, particularly in terms of training or experience sharing opportunities.

“I would like to thank the Japanese side for their contributions to naval training. They have assisted the Cambodian forces, and increased their capabilities in the areas of maritime security and law enforcement,” he added.

He also briefed the Japanese officer and his delegation on the economic situation of the province, including its special economic zones (SEZ), highlighting the province’s investment and tourism potential.

In a social media post, the provincial administration quoted Yanagihara as saying that the purpose of the visit was to train active crew members and increase friendship and cooperation between the Cambodian Navy and the JMSDF.

It said Yanagihara had spoken highly of the rapid growth of the province, noting the many high-rise buildings.

The JMSDF conduct goodwill cruises annually to maintain maritime peace and share experiences.

The vessels which called this year were the JS Shimakaze, a 150m guided missile destroyer with a ship’s company of 152, and the JS Suzunami, a 151m destroyer with 218 crew members aboard.