Defence Minister Urges Armed Forces Loyalty and Readiness

PHNOM PENH, April 21, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s defence minister has called on the armed forces to remain loyal and prepared to safeguard national sovereignty amid evolving regional and global challenges, officials said Tuesday.

Speaking on April 20, General Tea Seiha, Minister of National Defense, urged commanders, officers and soldiers of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces to uphold loyalty to the nation, the government and the monarchy, while maintaining readiness to defend independence and territorial integrity.

He made the remarks at a ceremony marking the close of training for the 2025–2026 academic year and the opening of the 2026–2027 academic year at the National Defense University.

Tea Seiha praised the university’s leadership and instructors for their role in strengthening defence capabilities and training military staff.

He said the institution had contributed to developing human resources, promoting patriotism and helping the armed forces adapt to technological advances, including digital transformation in modern warfare.

He also expressed appreciation for the support of Prime Minister Hun Manet, Senate President Hun Sen, state institutions, the private sector and foreign defence attachés.

The National Defense University plays a key role in preparing senior personnel across disciplines including military science and international languages, at a time of growing global security complexity.